Changes within the UK service business are part of a wider global integration process within Siemens, in which the global Service Renewables business has become part of the global Energy Service Division. Siemens’ customers are likely to realise significant benefits as a result of the integration including reduced costs and greater operational efficiencies. The newly integrated division is also focused on driving zero harm health and safety and customer service best practice, as well as supporting the growth of Renenewables in the UK, especially offshore wind power through the Crown Estates’ Round Three development programme.
Carl Ennis, managing director of Energy Service UK, said: “We have a huge advantage in bringing together the vibrant wind power service business which is experiencing huge growth, and the mature and successful fossil power plant service business, with a strong global footprint. Our combined strengths enhance our service offer to customers and also create new market opportunities”.
The UK Energy Service business is supported by the world-class Integrated Energy Service Training Facility. Established in 2008, the facility represents an investment of almost £8 million over the last three years and boasts a fossil power training bay, with full-scale steam and gas turbines, where trainees will undertake their practical training. In 2009, the Centre opened the UK’s first ever dedicated wind power training school, complete with a fully loaded 2.3MW nacelle, training towers as well as work stations for apprentices and service technicians.
The training facility maintains strong links with local schools such as Sir Charles Parson's School and Specialist Science College, St Cuthbert's RC High School and George Stephenson High School, as well as Tyne Metropolitan, Lincoln and Carnegie Colleges and the Universities of Newcastle, Durham and Northumbria. Over 500 new wind technicians have been trained at the Newcastle training facility over the past year with plans to expand intake to 1000 next year. By September this year, a total of 116 apprentices will have been recruited with most completing their training requirements in the Newcastle facility.
Speaking about the future, Ennis said: “This could not be a more exciting time for the UK Service business, with the high growth projected in Renewables, as well as the growth of the global gas turbine market and combine cycle power plants. We are positive about the benefits that the newly integrated business will bring to our customers and employees through enhanced career opportunities across a bigger, more diverse business”.
-ENDS-
Notes to editors:
About Siemens in the UK Siemens was established in the United Kingdom 168 years ago and now employs around 16,000 people in the UK. Last year’s revenues were £4.1 billion. As a leading global engineering and technology services company, Siemens provides innovative solutions to help tackle the world’s major challenges, across the key sectors of energy, industry and healthcare. Siemens has offices and factories throughout the UK, with its headquarters in Frimley, Surrey. The company’s global headquarters is in Munich, Germany. For more information, visit www.siemens.co.uk
For more information, contact:
Rachel Odams
PR Manager
Siemens plc
Tel. +44 (0)1276 690782
Mob: +44 (0)7808 824209
Rachel.odams@siemens.com
