Case Study

Microgeneration Advisor

Simon Proctor of Good Energy
Information about Simon Proctor
Name Simon Proctor
Location Wiltshire
Company Good Energy

"I had a desire to work for 'something', not 'someone'.
"

Simon Proctor

Overview

I’m Simon Proctor, and I work for Good Energy, the UK’s dedicated 100% renewable electricity supplier.  My job is within the Microgeneration Team.
I provide information and advice to people who generate the renewable energy that we supply, or those who are thinking of doing so and need to know more.
I’ve always had a desire and passion to work in this sector (I studied Environmental Management and Conservation at university) and decided that a job in renewable energy would be a good way to make a difference.  This area is growing all the time, and there are now a number of opportunities out there.  Volunteering is often a great way to gain the knowledge and experience that will enable you to obtain a paid position.
I really enjoy talking to others and learning all the time, and I feel inspired by people's projects and their commitment to stopping climate change.

Tell us about your job – where do you work and what do you do?

I'm employed by Good Energy Ltd, where I work in the Microgeneration Team.  My job is to grow and maintain our generator (people who generate energy) base.  I also provide advice and guidance to potential generators – those who are thinking about generating through renewables - to advise them on the products and services available to them.

What inspired you to do what you do?  How did you get into it, did you have a plan?

I've always been interested in environmental issues, and studied Environmental Management and Conservation at degree level.  This gave me the opportunity to find out which aspects of the area I was most interested in, and the chance to specialise accordingly.
I first worked on a conservation project abroad, but wanted to work and make a difference in my own country.  I thought that a job in renewable energy was the most direct and effective way to do this.

Why is your job meaningful?  Both to you personally, and in how it benefits the wider world in terms of climate change and other environmental challenges.

My job is meaningful because it gives me the chance to talk to a range of people and organisations who want to work towards the same outcome.  Each is taking relatively small steps towards the bigger goal.  My job is to give them the help and support that they need to do it - so it’s a real chance to inspire and encourage people to do something that can make a big difference.

Many jobs in this sector are very new, how long has your job existed?

My position is fairly new - as the company is quite new.  The renewable energy sector is on the up, growing all the time, and bringing with it a number of new opportunities and possibilities for anyone interested in working in this area.

What personal qualities do you think have got you where you are today?

All you really need is a passion for, and belief in, what you're doing; with this you will always be able to find the right role for you.

What are the essential skills for your job?

Again, a passion and belief in what you're doing – although, knowledge of the industry and the available products and services is essential too, but this is something that you can learn along the way.

What qualifications do you have? Are these typical for people in your role?

I have a degree in Environmental Management and Conservation.  It gives a good foundation for moving upwards - although many jobs do not require this.
Experience is an important part of any job, and there are a number of voluntary positions out there to help you get knowledge and experience.  There are also new qualifications that recognise renewables as a career choice.

What do you think most helped you get where you are now?

The drive and passion to work for what I believe in, and a desire to work for 'something', not 'someone'.
Qualifications can be important, as can experience - showing employers a commitment to the area of work that you're applying for.

Please describe a typical working day

My typical day is varied.  In general it involves talking to people and organisations about renewables, creating interest and consumer confidence in the industry.

What do you enjoy most and least about what you do?

I enjoy talking to others, always learning, and being inspired by people's projects and their commitment to stopping climate change.

What kind of people do you meet through your work or do you work alone?

Varied.  People have different reasons for getting into renewables; I have to identify their individual needs, then provide them with the information that they need in order to accomplish it.

Do you feel well paid for what you do, or is it not about the money?

Money is not important, and my job is not well paid - but I do get paid enough, and there is huge potential to move up into some very well paid positions (although this would depend on whether it's through a business or a charity).

Finally, what do you know now about jobs, careers and the future that you wish you’d known when you were at school?

I wish I'd known that you do not need a scientific background to get involved in renewables.  As the sector grows, so do the opportunities - and so, too, do the chances to gain necessary knowledge and experience along the way.  The most important thing is passion and belief in what you're doing, together with some idea of the bigger picture.

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