The Centre for Green Technology

In May 2025, Inspire Education Group (IEG) officially unveiled its £13.5m Centre for Green Technology (CGT) at Peterborough College — a landmark facility designed not only to address the UK’s green skills shortage, but to serve as a bold example of how education can directly power economic growth, workforce readiness, and environmental responsibility.

The Centre houses industry-standard facilities that support training in electric vehicle infrastructure, solar PV systems, air source heat pumps, retrofit, and sustainable construction practices. Designed in close consultation with industry, the Centre supports full-time students, apprentices, and adult learners.

What Does CGT Offer?

Our state-of-the-art centre is designed to equip learners with practical skills and real-world experience in sustainability-focused industries.

Renewable Energy Labs

Hands-on training with solar panels, wind turbines, and hydrogen technology.

Electric Vehicle Technology Workshops

Specialist training in EV maintenance, battery storage, and charging infrastructure.

Sustainable Construction Zone

Learning in low-carbon building techniques, insulation systems, and eco-friendly materials.

Smart Home & Energy Efficiency Training

Developing skills in heat pumps, home automation, and sustainable energy solutions.

“This exciting £13.5 million project will equip students with cutting-edge knowledge and skills in modern construction methods, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving construction landscape.”

– Rachel Nicholls, Chief Executive Officer Inspire Education Group

“The new Green Technology Centre at Peterborough College will be a brilliant place for students to learn the skills needed for the jobs of the future.”

– Peter Kyle, Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology

“As the UK transitions to a brighter, greener, future, the jobs in clean technologies will be highly skilled and students in Peterborough will be ready to compete with the best in the world to secure these roles.”

– Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough

“Peterborough has a proud history of engineering and the College’s new Centre for Green Technology will only add to this, helping to support Labour’s missions for growth, clean energy, and opportunity for all.”

– Chi Onwurah, MP for Newcastle upon Tyne Central & West and Chair of the Science, Innovation and Technology Select Committee.

“The Centre for Green Technology at Peterborough College is an inspiring project which will make a real difference to the future, training the next generation to work in green technologies and modern methods of construction.”

– Darren Chapman, Operations Director at Clegg Construction

“The demand for EV charging units is growing exponentially, and it is crucial that we have a well-trained workforce to support this growth. By partnering with IEG, we can help cultivate the next generation of skilled technicians and engineers who will drive the future of sustainable transportation.”

– Allan Ross, Contractor Relations and Training Manager at Rolec

“To take advantage of the opportunities of moving towards a net zero carbon economy, it is vital to speed up the availability of cutting-edge green skills that will help people into great jobs and careers. IEG’s close working with local industry will be vital in ensuring that the courses and curriculum meet the fast-changing needs of business.”

– Cllr Lucy Nethsingha, Chair of the Combined Authority Skills Committee.

“This important project takes Peterborough to the forefront of the UK’s drive to adopt and manage new green technologies. It is extremely exciting to see Peterborough College “breaking ground” literally and practically.”
– Matthew Bradbury, Chair of the Towns Fund.