Mark Wilkins, head of training and external affairs at Vaillant, commented: “Currently, there are not enough qualified engineers to design and install the number of low-carbon, low-temperature heating systems needed to implement the expected increase in these technologies in forthcoming years. The HPA has estimated that a total of 69,500 installers would be needed by 2035 to deploy the amount of installations necessary in order for the UK to stay on track and achieve net-zero by 20501.

“As well as growing the number of qualified installers, we must ensure that those undertaking the work have the confidence and the right skills to build a reputable heat pump market.

“This initial demand will be serviced by professionals that are currently installing conventional heating technologies. The gas installers of today will already possess most of the competencies required for low carbon heating installation, but the industry needs to support them with taking their knowledge to the next level.

“We, along with other manufacturers, offer training to upskill installers about heat pumps and ‘green’ solutions. But these alone, are not enough. Engineers need a wide range of up-to-date skills, knowledge and competencies that reflect the latest technologies and standards to help them to design and install quality low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, for their customers.

“The availability of modern, regulated and relevant training built on a robust qualification criteria and training framework will go a long way to address this skills gap. That’s why we are fully behind both of these initiatives and would urge installers to have their say so that they can shape future training to meet their needs.”