A YORK specialist in environmentally friendly technology is making long-term plans after expanding into a new market.

Solarwall, based on the Green Lane Trading Estate, hopes its new showroom for renewable energy technologies will secure the company’s future, said managing director Sue Lamb.

The £6 million turnover business has been providing cavity wall and loft insulation from York for the past 30 years and employs about 80 people.

Sue said the renewables business would ensure those 80 people would still have a job in six years’ time.

“One of the reasons we have set it up is to give Solarwall a longer life. This brings in another income stream and expands the company,” she said.

The company is also expanding into the business market.

Solarwall has invested £10,000 in converting its office building into a showroom, which gives customers a chance to see and touch the technology at work, including insulation, thermal blinds, solar light tubes, solar roof panels and ground and air source heat pumps.

The centre opens its doors to the public on May 26.

It also has a carbon-free meeting room which is available to hire by businesses and other organisations.