East Lothian-based thermal storage company, Sunamp, has named Martin Bloom as Chairman, succeeding Bob Pettigrew.

The appointment comes amid an exciting time for the heat battery manufacturer as it prepares for a new phase of growth. The company closed its latest seed round at just over £3 million.

Bloom has a track record in building high-growth technology and renewable energy companies, helping to create and drive forward growth strategies and developing strategic partnerships, Sunamp said in a statement.

Bloom previously served as Chairman of Chinese solar company Renesola for around ten years. During a five year period, Renesola experienced increased revenues from $5 million (£3.82 million) to $1.2 billion (£920 million).

Other roles include serving as Group CEO and Commercial Director of global fuel cell and energy company, Intelligent Energy, and a stint at air filtration and clean air solutions firm, MayAir Group.

Commenting on the announcement, Sunamp CEO Andrew Bissell said: “Martin’s track record in accelerating commercial growth of early-stage technology companies is an excellent fit for Sunamp, and for our future ambitions, and I warmly welcome his appointment.

“I am confident he is the right person to chair the Board as we drive forward our growth strategy and the company will benefit from his sector expertise and wide network. He will build on Bob Pettigrew’s foundations in steering Sunamp through its early growth.”

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Headquarter in Tranent, East Lothian, Sunamp said it expects to almost double its staff throughout 2019. The business recently signed agreements with Chinese companies Trina Solar and Gomon Renewable Energy Development Co.

Sunamp’s partnership with Gomon aims to develop an innovative heat pump water heater for the residential market, based on Gomon heat pumps and the firm’s UniQ range of high energy density, high power density compact heat batteries.

In recent months, Sunamp has also made significant strides in the UK and European heating, ventilation and air conditioning markets.