In a move which could benefit thousands of green energy training apprentices once they qualify, the government has announced its plan to invest an extra £20 million in clean energy technologies.

According to one renewables expert, the additional funding will increase the availability of finance to the industry, particularly for new technologies.

Jemma Robinson is the communications manager at the Renewable Energy Association (REA), which represents the UK's power, heat and fuel industries.

She said that the REA welcomes the plans, as it has consistently campaigned for extra funding for individuals, communities and enterprises.

"Access to finance is a key issue for the sector and increased investment is urgently needed in order for us to achieve our mandatory 2020 EU targets," stated Ms Robinson.

The additional allocation of capital support was announced by energy and climate change secretary Ed Miliband.

It constitutes the most recent instalment of the £405 million that the Budget has allocated to low carbon projects