AN expanding renewable energy business plans to create new jobs after moving into new premises.

Sumec UK Ltd, which was set up two years ago at York’s Eco Business Centre, has moved to 10,000 sq ft of new warehousing and office space at Escrick Business Park.

The business, which currently employs 12 people, expects to increase its staff numbers to 20 by the end of next year.

Sumec UK Ltd made the move to meet growing UK demand for its expanding Phono Solar renewables product range and to showcase leading solar energy technology, which it imports from China.

The company, headed by Mariana Hall and her husband Steve, was originally a subsidiary of Sumec’s European operation, until the UK operation gained its independence in 2010.

Mrs Hall, managing director, said: “We are at the cutting edge of solar and wind technology and have ambitious growth plans for the business in the UK. This move reflects that.”

Once the work is completed, the double unit at Escrick will house extensive warehousing space, a sales and marketing suite, additional offices and an inspection and service repair area.

Mr Hall, after sales manager, added: “For us, customer care has always been a major focus not just at the point of sale, but going forward.

“From our new HQ we have the scope to improve still further.”

He said the company was committed to supporting the local economy and used local architects, joiners, fabricators and plumbers from within a mile or so of Escrick Business Park.

The business plans to fit out the building with the next generation of renewable technology to heat it, power its forklift trucks and also deliver revenue through the feed-in tariffs.