Ploughcroft Sets Schools Renewable Energy Challenge

BRIGHOUSE, England, April 26, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Secondary schools across the country are being set an exciting challenge by Ploughcroft, one of the UK's leading renewable specialists.

Ploughcroft is committed to inspiring young people about the opportunities within the construction and renewable industry and is asking secondary school pupils in Year 9 or above to come up with a concept for a renewable product, which could save UK households on their energy or fuel bills.

The winning team will win a £1,000 cash prize* plus an educational tour of Ploughcroft's Eco Roof Visitor Centre in West Yorkshire to find out more about the exciting opportunities in this sector.

Chris Hopkins, Managing Director of Ploughcroft, said: "As a business we are passionate about encouraging young people to find out more about the exciting career opportunities within the renewable sector.  It's really important that young people begin to think how they can help the environment and this challenge is all about raising their aspirations and demonstrating that there are some really exciting career opportunities to do this in the construction sector. We are hoping that as many schools as possible will get involved."

The competition, which runs until the end of June, asks teams not only  to come up with a new renewable product, but also a marketing campaign to launch the product and promote it to its target market - UK householders.  

Chris Hopkins is offering his services as a green construction ambassador and member of the Government's Green Construction Board, to go into schools to give a presentation about the opportunities for young people in construction and renewable energy, as part of inspiring them about the wide range of career options.  

All entries will be judged by Chris and his team of renewable experts and the finalists will then be asked to present their business idea to him in a 'Dragons Den' style pitch.  The winning school will then be chosen to take an educational tour of Ploughcroft's Eco Roof Visitor Centre in West Yorkshire and will be awarded their cash prize.

Any schools interested in taking part should contact Amanda Edwards on +44(0)1484-723344 for an information pack or by email: Amanda.edwards@ploughcroft.co.uk

Alternatively, visit the website http://www.ploughcroft for full details.

Press enquiries: Marina Wood or Emma Roots, Dragonfly PR, Tel: +44(0)1709-300130 or email: marina@dragonflypr.co.uk.

*the £1000 cash prize will be divided equally between the number of members of the winning team, no alternative prize is available.