Forty jobs will be created after a renewable energy company opened a centre in Braintree.

Eaga plans to instal solar panels to more than 40,000 homes per year.

Braintree MP Brooks Newmark opened the centre which will also work with social housing landlords to offer free solar power options.

Mr Newmark said: “I am delighted Eaga has decided to invest in this clean energy centre here in Essex, and in the green jobs it will bring.”

Managing director of renewable energy at Eaga Phil Stephenson said: “This new Braintree centre will be at the very heart of our renewable’s operation.

“We are now planning to recruit up to 40 staff and to train them in a mix of clean energy, insulation and gas installation skills.”