FRIDAY
6 JUNE, 2025
An update from our CEO, Chris McLain
CEN works with The Buddy Bag Foundation to support children in emergency care
Supporting Birmingham through education, outreach and ECO4
Laver Group leads the way with shared solar technology
As we reach the end of Q2, I want to take a moment to reflect on the progress we ’ ve made and the exciting direction we ’ re heading in
This quarter, we undertook a significant operational restructure in our Cardiff office, positioning us to deliver more efficiently while better supporting our teams and customers. I want to thank everyone involved for your professionalism, adaptability, and commitment throughout this transition
We’ve also continued to invest in what matters most, our people and our communities. Our partnership with the Buddy Bag Foundation was a real highlight this quarter. Seeing our team come together to pack 200 bags for children in emergency care was a powerful reminder of the positive impact we can make beyond our day-to-day work.
As our business grows, we ’ re also broadening our horizons beyond ECO. Through our work with Heatforce and Lavers, we ’ ve built a strong foundation in the social housing sector, and we ’ re now scaling up, particularly in the retrofit market, where we already have deep expertise.
We’ve delivered fantastic projects with local partners such as POBL and Powys, and I’m pleased to share that we ’ ve recently secured places on several key frameworks, including Fusion21, Procurement for Housing, and CHIC. These wins strengthen our position and give us valuable access to clients who rely on these routes to procure trusted suppliers
Thank you all for your continued hard work and dedication
The progress we ’ ve made is a direct result of the energy, professionalism, and passion you bring every day. I’m excited for what’s to come and proud to be on this journey with all of you.
Best regards,
Chris McLain CEO, City Energy Network
Last week, City Energy Network proudly partnered with the incredible Buddy Bag Foundation to host a charity event that truly captured the heart of our team With 25 volunteers from across the business, including our CEO Chris McLain, we came together to pack 200 Buddy Bags for children entering emergency care.
Each bag was thoughtfully filled with essentials, like toothbrushes, pyjamas, books, and a cuddly teddy bear, aimed at offering comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging during what can be an incredibly traumatic time. These small but meaningful packs go to children who often have to leave home with nothing, and they serve as a reminder that someone cares
Reflecting on the event, Chris McLain shared:
Today’s event with the Buddy Bag Foundation has been truly inspiring. Packing 200 bags alongside our team was a powerful reminder of the impact we can make when we come together for a greater cause.
We were also honoured to be joined by Karen Williams OBE, Co-Founder and CEO of the Buddy Bag Foundation, whose passion and leadership inspired us all. Her dedication to supporting vulnerable children left a lasting impression on every one of us
In recognition of our efforts, we ’ re thrilled to share that City Energy Network has been named the Buddy Bag Foundation’s Company of the Month, a testament to the incredible commitment and compassion shown by our team
It was a day filled with purpose, positivity, and true team spirit. To everyone who volunteered or supported behind the scenes, thank you. You helped send 200 messages of hope into the world, and we couldn’t be prouder. We look forward to continuing our partnership with this remarkable charity and creating more moments that matter
Sian White summed up the day with:
Today’s event with the Budd Foundation has been incredibly mo a people-focused organisation, it m much to be able to give back in a w directly supports children durin vulnerable moments. It's about mo just the bags, it’s about showin compassion, and investing in a future for the next generation We’r to stand behind this meaningful cau
We’re excited to announce that all IT issues for Cardiff-based teams –including City Energy, City Training, CEFM, Heatforce, AES, and Laver Group, can now be reported by emailing ithelpdesk@cityenergy.co.uk.
Your requests will be managed through our new IT Service Management (ITSM) system, which allows us to track, prioritise, and resolve tickets efficiently, ensuring a more streamlined and consistent IT support experience for everyone.
Our quarterly training initiative is progressing well, with many staff completing their modules. However, there are still a number of team members who haven’t yet finished their cyber security training. Cyber awareness is critical to protecting our systems and data, so if you haven’t completed your training yet, please make it a priority – it only takes a short time but makes a big difference.
Centralising IT support through our new helpdesk email and ITSM system means quicker resolutions and better service for everyone. Don’t forget to complete your cyber security training – it's a small task that plays a big role in keeping us all protected.
As part of our commitment to supporting local communities, City Energy Network has been actively engaging with organisations and individuals across Birmingham to raise awareness of the ECO4 scheme and improve the quality of housing for those most in need.
In collaboration with HM Prison and Probation Service, our team visited Swinfen Prison on 10th April to deliver a workshop as part of the Memory Threads Project, run by our partners at Nurture CC. Using art as a tool for engagement, we connected with inmates explored how creative expression can sup rehabilitation and open conversations arou housing and future opportunities We hop extend this initiative to more prisons acros Birmingham area in the coming months
Vikki reflected on her day at Swinfen, Engaging with those at Swinfen YOI was inspiring. It’s vital that we continue to reach all areas of the community, and we ’ re now keen to explore how a partnership with City Training Group could help us bring meaningful, in-house training support to those preparing for release through tailored workshops, accredited programmes, or skills-based sessions that build confidence and readiness for employment
we ’ ve also been connecting with the wider Birmingham community by visiting local hubs, centres, and trusts across the city. Our goal has been simple: to brief local organisations on the ECO4 scheme and how it can help improve living conditions for those they support. The response has been overwhelmingly positive. Many community leaders expressed a deep desire to find practical support for their service users and welcomed the information we provided We’ve left batches of ECO4 flyers and resources to help them spread the word further.
This project is more than outreach, it’s about building trust, creating partnerships, and offering real solutions to improve the quality of life in Birmingham. We’re proud to be part of the movement toward warmer, more energy-efficient homes and look forward to continuing this work with the people who make this city stronger every day
At Heatforce, we’re committed to more than just installations we’re here for the long run, helping our customers save money and reduce their carbon footprint year after year. That’s why we caught up with Alastair, one of our solar panel customers, nearly ten months after his installation, to hear how his system has been performing and how it’s impacted his energy bills
It went exactly as planned They’ve come down quite considerably over a period of time We’ve been through the winter period, and I’ve still had quite a large reduction in my electricity bill And that’s what I really wanted.
As sunnier days return, Alastair’s solar battery is working more efficiently storing unused daytime energy for use later. This helps reduce reliance on the grid and boosts long-term savings.
When asked if he’d recommend Heatforce to others, Alastair didn’t hesitate:
“Yes, I certainly would The amount of work that they did in ensuring that the installation was correct… I had a lot of visits from a lot of people, which helped. They did a lot of survey work; the survey was excellent. All the employees that I came across were very friendly and very knowledgeable ”
His feedback is a great reminder that it’s not just the technology that matters it’s the care, attention to detail, and expertise that come with it
As we continue to grow our presence across the UK, stories like Alastair’s reinforce the importance of what we do: helping households take control of their energy, save money, and reduce their carbon footprint!
Laver Group is proud to celebrate two significant contract wins in the social housing sector, marking a major milestone in our continued growth.
These achievements reflect our ongoing commitment to sustainability, innovation, and delivering high-quality building services that create lasting value for residents and communities.
In a pioneering move for sustainable housing, a Residential Housing Association in South Wales has completed a state-of-the-art solar PV installation using SolShare technology. This breakthrough solution enabled fair access to solar energy in multi-unit buildings.
This project reimagines how solar power is delivered in residential blocks. Instead of requiring individual rooftop systems or batteries, residents in five flats now benefit directly from a shared solar array, unlocking renewable energy savings without the complexity or high upfront costs
Installed across three tiled rooftops, the solar PV system was carefully designed for maximum performance, fair energy distribution, and smooth integration with the building’s existing setup.
Key Components:
167 x Jinko Tiger Neo 440W Panels –High-efficiency panels built for reliable performance in UK weather.
504 x Renusol Roof Mounts – Durable, weatherproof supports suited for concrete tile roofs.
5 x Growatt MOD 12000TL3-X Inverters –Efficiently convert solar power into usable electricity.
5 x SolShare 35 Units – Distribute solar energy fairly across five flats
Emlite EMP 100A Generation Meter –Tracks total solar output for accurate monitoring
Electrical Infrastructure – Includes enclosures, switchgear, cabling, and trunking installed to full safety standards
Scaffolding – Provided safe, efficient access with minimal disruption to residents.
Optimised Solar Layout:
Panels strategically placed acro rooftops to maximise year-roun production
Shared Solar Distribution:
SolShare units deliver solar directly to each flat, removing for individual systems or storage
Seamless Integration:
Fully connected to existing units, no structural changes requ
Low Disruption:
Works were completed on schedule with thoughtful planning to minimise impact on residents.
Each flat now receives a direct supply of solar energy, significantly reducing reliance on grid electricity and lowering monthly energy costs for residents
Carbon Savings
The installation is projected to offset more than 28 tons of CO₂ emissions every year, supporting the client’s long-term environmental and sustainability commitments
Future-Proofed Design
With a modular, scalable setup, the system can be easily expanded or integrated with emerging technologies such as electric vehicle charging points or battery storage
Enhanced Property Value
Energy-efficient upgrades not only improve environmental performance but also increase the overall appeal and market value of the property to future tenants and buyers.
CES spreads some Easter cheer by donating 200 chocolate eggs to local charity Faith in Families, matching the 200 insulation projects completed in March.
Established in 1999, Faith in Families supports vulnerable families across Swansea through its three Community Cwtches, based in some of the city’s most
deprived areas. Offering services such as toddler groups, child therapy, home support, and Wales’ first multibank, the charity plays a vital role in the community.
This Easter, they hosted three egg hunts with food and resources for families CES is a proud supporter, backing campaigns like Back to School with a Cwtch and donating £2,500 to the Cwtch Up Appeal for warm winter coats.
Stephen Williams, Sales Director at CES, said:
We were delighted to get involved with another incredible campaign by Faith in Families The work they do for vulnerable families in Swansea is incredible, and it’s an honour to have contributed to their long-lasting impact. Looking after our local community is one of our core values at CES, and so we are delighted to be working with such a meaningful charity.
The charity transforms lives across Swansea Bay through its Community Cwtches & Multibank It provides vital support to children and families facing challenges such as poverty, crisis, and trauma The wide range of services includes parent and toddler groups, 1-21 child therapy, parental & child support, outreach work & home support.
We’re excited to officially announce the opening of our brand-new headquarters, a major milestone in the growth and evolution of Consumer Energy Solutions.
After a phased move-in during late 2024, we ’ re proud to say that as of early 2025, our entire team is now under one roof. Our new three-storey office building spans an impressive 33,285 square feet, and it’s so much more than just a workspace, it’s a reflection of our commitment to our people and our culture.
The building underwent a complete overhaul to create a modern, inspiring environment. It now features spacious office areas, relaxing common rooms, a vibrant bar with pool tables, a fully equipped gym, and a welcoming canteen Every detail was designed with collaboration, wellness, and enjoyment in mind.
Today, the site is home to nearly 250 team members Bringing everyone together in one location has already had a remarkable impact. We've seen a significant boost in communication, collaboration, and overall morale, proof that the right environment can empower people to do their best work.
This new space represents more than just physical growth; it's a foundation for our future We can’t wait to see what’s next.
City Training Group is proud to be part of several key industry events this year. From major national exhibitions to prestigious award ceremonies, we’re showcasing how we’re helping the workforce upskill for a low-carbon, high-demand future.
We’re honoured to sponsor the Regional Energy Consultant/Consultancy of the Year Award and serve as the official training partner of the 2025 Energy Efficiency Awards. With regional events across the UK, from Exeter to Bolton, we ’ re using this platform to connect, celebrate excellence, and raise awareness of the vital role training plays in the energy sector. The awards season will conclude at the National Energy Efficiency Awards on Friday 21 November 2025, at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole We’re excited to be part of it!
We’re heading to The Welsh Construction S Wales’ leading construction industry exhibition Join us to learn more about our wide rang NVQs, accredited training programmes, and funded courses designed to support professio across all trades.
We’re thrilled to be exhibiting at InstallerSHOW 2025, the UK’s largest event for the heat, water, air, and energy sectors.
Come and meet the team, explore our latest accredited training solutions, and discover how we ’ re supporting the industry’s transition to a greener future.
City Training Group has partnered with Coleg y Cymoedd to deliver a free “Introduction to Construction” course, ideal for anyone looking to change careers or take their first steps into the construction industry
This four-day, hands-on course provides a solid foundation in essential safety practices and industry regulations, helping learners build the skills and confidence needed to enter the workforce This course is perfect for school leavers, career changers, or anyone looking for real-world construction skills in a supportive learning environment.
Register now to secure your place: https://rebrand.ly/aqnna6z
Course enquiries: 02920 755880 | info@citytraining.com
Funding enquiries: 01443 663128 | partnerships@cymoedd.ac.uk
Health and Safety in Construction – Understand on-site safety protocols, regulations, and your legal responsibilities.
Asbestos Awareness – Learn how to identify and manage asbestos in line with industry standards
Gas Safety Awareness – Gain insight into detecting and handling gas-related hazards
Water Regulations – Discover how water is conserved, managed, and regulated in construction environments.
Workshop 1: 19–23 May 2025
Workshop 2: 16–20 June 2025
Time: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM daily
Location: City Training Group, 6 Lambourne Crescent, Cardiff CF14 5GF
Cost: Free*
To apply, you must: Be aged 16 or over
Not be enrolled in other further/higher education or Welsh Governmentfunded work-based learning
Be a legal resident of Wales
We’re proud to announce that our Health & Safety courses are now accredited by Cert-ain. While already trusted by many reputable businesses, this added recognition means attendees of our one-day training, covering key topics such as asbestos awareness, manual handling, face fit, working at height, and more, will now receive both a Cert-ain and CTG certificate upon completion.
City Training Group is now a CITB Approved Training Organisation This allows CITB levypaying members to claim up to 70% funding on our accredited Level 2 & 3 NVQs in Insulation & Building Treatments. Courses include cavity wall, internal and external wall, underfloor, cold roof, and room-in-roof insulation Our assessors deliver support nationwide, providing flexible, site-based qualification pathways.
We’re proud to be an approved provider under the Welsh Zero Carbon Hwb — a national initiative driving low-carbon training and workforce development in Wales. Our approved status highlights the quality and relevance of our renewable energy training, from heat pumps and solar systems to EV charging and battery storage. We’re committed to helping build a greener, more sustainable future
Launched in late 2024, our Domestic Ventilation Systems course has quickly become one of our most popular offerings. Delivered in our purpose-built learning zone, it’s ideal for electricians, plumbers, and HVAC engineers looking to install and commission systems in line with Building Regulations Part F. The course is also recognised by Competent Person Schemes, and students have joined us from across the UK.
Be sure to follow all of our members on social media to stay informed and engaged with all the latest updates from the City Energy Network. A special thank you to all our contributors and staff for their hard work in making this newsletter possible. Your dedication and effort truly make a difference!
