New partnership to provide subsidised courses for business from UHI North, West and Hebrides

UHI North, West and Hebrides and EDP Renewables (EDPR), a leader in renewable energy development globally, announced a new partnership today which will benefit business owners and their employees on Skye.

A variety of courses will be offered to residents of the island at half price in order to give them the opportunity to develop new skills thanks to EDPR's support. The partnership was officially unveiled at an event held at the Portree Campus of UHI North, West, and Hebrides, where representatives from both organisations signed the agreement.

Through these subsidised courses, Skye residents will be able to access courses such as Renewable Energy Systems Awareness, Health and Safety training, First Aid training, Paediatric First Aid, Chainsaw Crosscut and Maintenance, SIA Door Supervisor training and Food Hygiene.

David Campbell, Director of Business Enterprise and Development at UHI North, West and Hebrides, explained: “UHI North, West and Hebrides is delighted to partner with EDP Renewables in supporting the local community on Skye. The funding provided by EDPR is being directly funnelled into the community to provide local people with opportunities to shape their futures in a changing world. As an anchor institution, our aim is to have a transformative impact on our communities which resonates perfectly with EDPR’s social responsibility principles in contributing to the communities they work in. We look forward to working with EDPR on this exciting project with the hope, that through its success, this is the first of many joint initiatives.”

Carmen Caminero, Country Manager of EDPR UK, said, “At EDPR we are focused not only in actively contributing to the decarbonization of the UK’s economy, but also, we are committed to promote a better access to resources and education for the local communities where we operate. Thus, we are delighted to be supporting Skye communities with this new partnership with UHI North, West and Hebrides. EDP Renewables is making a long-term commitment to supporting local community initiatives and helping to maintain the island’s sustainability. These courses and our partnership, will help ensure local residents can develop new skills and grow their businesses."