Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Edward Davey has launched a £500,000 fund which aims to raise the skill set of domestic heating engineers so they can install and maintain renewable heating systems.
The voucher scheme will be supported by an apprenticeship initiative that will encourage people entering the industry to develop the necessary expertise to work on these systems and gain relevant qualification credits.
Based on the results of the initiative, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) will look to increase funding and support for the supply chain.
In addition, the Energy Saving Trust is publishing guides for consumers covering a range of low carbon heat technologies.
Mr Davey said: 'This voucher scheme is aimed at the engineers who give us their expert advice on the heating system in our home - often over a cup of tea in the kitchen. Our research shows us that these men and women are the people we trust when looking for advice on how to keep warm in a reliable and affordable way.
'But too often, they are only able to talk about what they are most familiar with - and that usually means gas or oil-fired boilers. By taking advantage of these training vouchers, these engineers will be able to extend their advice to renewable heating options ahead of the introduction of the domestic Renewable Heat Initiative in spring next year.'
He continued: 'In many instances not only will the engineers' advice and work reduce the environmental impact of heating our homes but reduce people's heating bills too. A win-win situation for everyone.'
Logic4training's marketing director, Mark Krull, said: 'Logic4training is proud to play host to the launch of such an important initiative; DECC's Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) training support voucher scheme offers a great boost to installers looking to take advantage of the market opportunities presented by the domestic RHI. This should encourage more engineers to train in related technologies, ensuring end users have access to skilled trades people to help them realise the cost and carbon saving potential of renewables.'
For more information visit
www.rhitraining.co.uk
