Adam Philips has been appointed to lead Britain’s Energy Coast community energy projects.

Adam has just graduated from the University of Cumbria with a degree in social enterprise leadership.

He has joined the profit-for-purpose property company as community and energy officer to support head of energy and funding Joe Martin.

Adam, who lives close to Britain's Energy Coast headquarters in Cleator Moor, will also support the company’s ambitions to develop a smart microgrid at Westlakes Science and Technology Park and ensure that the key North Shore development scheme in Whitehaven has the lowest carbon footprint possible.

He will develop the company's wider involvement in the local communities and lead on the company’s corporate social responsibly and volunteering activities.

He will develop a database of volunteering opportunities to help guide the BEC team as they seek to use the two days’ time off they receive annually for community activities.

He said: "I’ve been looking for a career opportunity that allows me to join forces with colleagues to make a positive impact in the community around me. I never imagined that such a role could be found in an office-based environment, but I’m enjoying getting stuck in."

Mr Martin added: “As BEC delivers its 10-year business plan we need to drive forward significant energy- and community-focused projects.

"To help us with this we needed someone with a natural desire to see low-carbon initiatives thrive – but who was also skilled in listening to, and engaging with, the communities who will benefit from these projects.

"Adam has undertaken a wide range of volunteer activities over the past five years and has excelled in his degree course.

"As a result, he brings third sector passion and private sector entrepreneurism into the BEC team.”