Bradford could soon be producing 2000 smart engineers.

The UK’s first bespoke dual fuel smart meter training centre in Bradford, has teamed up with a recuriter to get up to 2000 engineers ready to help smart roll out.

Utilities Academy based in Bradford, has courses sanctioned by the National Academy for Skills and Gas Safe, launched a big drive to recruit, train, supply and retain specialist dual fuel and smart metering engineers last month.

The government has committed the UK to smart meter rollout from now until 2020. Putting a smart meter in every home and business is going to need an estimated extra 14,000 trained engineers.

Neil Robertson, Chief Executive of Energy and Utility Skills says: “The energy sector is in an extremely seriously situation to ensure the government’s significant investment in this roll-out is carried out with the correct workforce, skills and knowledge.”

Local MP Mike Wood said: “To learn that this Academy, the ‘Oxbridge of smart meter training, is dedicated to developing and creating a skilled workforce for this change is commendable. I am delighted to have this academy in my constituency.”

Recruiters Spencer Ogden will help in the jobs drive.

• bradford, engineering jobs, Smart meters