We recently welcomed Megan Knapp, an International Development student from Reading University, on her micro-placement.

Throughout the week, Megan worked alongside a member of our data insights team who is currently detailing our new sustainability plan and has spent the last few months tirelessly categorising every element of our current sustainable and social value work, whilst developing our strategic plan for how we can improve this in the future.

Megan experienced the day-to-day life of working in the charity sector, attending internal strategy meetings, and talking to colleagues to understand how we work directly with a number of councils, and about the different types of government-backed schemes. She was also involved in creating Act on Energy’s response to the recent Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation, which will help shape the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s new policies in supporting the rising number of residents who are experiencing fuel poverty in the UK.

It was an exciting week to be involved with the West Midland’s leading energy advice charity, due to the April price rise taking effect during that week, as Megan got to see the reaction of local media. It was also great for our own insight, to hear from someone who is involved in their local community about how students, and young people in private rented accommodation, are coping with energy bills and damp problems. Lived experience is the best way to shape the work that we do, so it was wonderful to hear that feedback from a different source.

With the recent focus on green skills, gaining experience in sustainable practises, a better understanding of energy efficiency and how it relates to environmental issues is invaluable. Many organisations are turning their attention to achieving net-zero, and we are seeing it shape a lot of international policies, so skills and knowledge in this area are able to be transferred to a variety of different sectors.

Thank you, Megan, for choosing Act on Energy for your placement, and we look forward to seeing your achievements throughout your future career.

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