The UK’s first renewable energy training facility based at an FE college has been declared open by the prime minister.

The Energy Centre at the Berkshire College of Agriculture was officially opened by Theresa May on April 27.

The facility has been developed by the college in partnership with biomass company LC Energy, and will offer students aged 16 to 19 a range of technical qualifications in areas such as biofuel engineering and renewable energy.

During her visit, Ms May had a tour of the facilities, including the first training biomass boiler at a UK FE college, and met with students and staff.

“I was pleased to be able to meet with students who, through using the new energy centre, will be given the training and opportunity to make a real difference to help protect our planet for future generations,” Ms May said.

“We already have two biomass boilers and engine rooms on campus, and the addition of this new centre provides the facility for the development of professionally recognised training for this sustainable energy provision,” added Gillian May, principal of the college.