Leicester-based Intelligent Energy Solutions (IES) has welcomed Blackrock Energy to the group, which already has offices in Leicester, Gloucester, Leeds and Bolton. Entrepreneur Stuart Black is managing the franchise, which offers the full range of IES products including solar photovoltaic panels, solar thermal collectors, air and ground source heat pumps and rainwater harvesting systems.
With a strong sales background and customer-focused ethos, Black is confident the franchise will be successful in Wrexham, where competition is currently sparse. “North Wales is an extremely diverse area as it includes expansive agricultural land, densely populated urban areas as well as one of the largest industrial estates in Great Britain,” said Black. “I believe this provides an excellent platform to establish the business in three highly develop-able, distinct sectors.”
During his first year of trading, Black is working closely with the award-winning team at IES’ head office in Hamilton, Leicester and has already recorded excellent results, completing various projects including a retrofit heat pump and solar PV installation at a large domestic barn conversion. If trading continues in this vein, Black hopes to create vacancies for surveyors, installers and support staff within the next 12 months.
IES’ managing director, Peter Searancke commented: “The initial success of Blackrock Energy has been particularly encouraging and confirms my decision that a franchise scheme is the best way to expand geographically and develop a credible future for IES. Growth in the renewable energy sector is tremendous and we have long-term aspirations to remain at the forefront through investment in training, jobs and premium products.
“Stuart is exactly the calibre of franchisee we were looking for to help consolidate these goals – conscientious, enthusiastic and passionate about a greener future. We have every confidence the franchise will be a success.”
Black added: “Renewable energy is a young, dynamic and exciting industry that is generating a huge buzz as public awareness increases. IES appealed to me as a business opportunity because the team is at the heart of the drive towards a sustainable future and has an inherent commitment to achieve this through added-value service and bespoke solutions for clients.”
IES’ approach of tailoring systems to customer’s exact requirements was recognised with the 2011 Energy Management Installer of the Year award at the Renewables Roadshow. The company was also a finalist in the 2012 Environment and Energy Awards and its managing director, Peter Searancke is shortlisted in the East Midlands 42 under 42 awards, recognising business leaders of the future.