South Eastern Regional College has developed a new range of training programmes to prepare the work force for the rising demand around expertise in the renewable technologies sector.
The college has introduced a specialist photovoltaic (pv) training and assessment qualification for installers of these technologies to ensure they have the technical skills and know-how to work with renewable energy equipment.
One local company which has already benefited from the training is specialist supplier of fire and security equipment Altas Fire and Security Ltd. The energy division of the Belfast based company Atlas Energy has up-skilled 12 engineering technicians in specialist Solar Photovoltaic training.
The training, delivered by SERC, uses state of the art equipment and focuses on the installation, design, maintenance and commission of solar PV systems Stewart Nelson, SERC lecturer in electrical, sustainability and building services, said: “The shift to renewable technology creates challenges when an existing workforce must up-skill and retrain as a result of changing consumer demand and technology advancements.
“Companies like Atlas Energy demand specialist programmes to meet their specific needs and we have the expertise and flexibility to deliver this. We understand how hard it is for businesses to up-skill employees with demands on their time and money. That’s why we make it as easy as possible for participants by working with them to minimise the impact of releasing staff. It’s a real partnership.”
Atlas Energy managing director John Nesbitt said: “Investment in training and skills development is critical for enhancing productivity and building a competitive edge. The training was designed to advance the knowledge and capabilities of our team.”
On completion of the course individuals and companies can qualify for membership of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme.
Participants on the course receive discount on the cost of the training thanks to funding provided by the Department for Employment and Learning’s Skills Solution Customised Training fund.
As the only college in the National Skills Academy network, SERC is offering a range of accredited training and qualifications, including solar photovoltaic (PV), solar thermal hot water and biomass to ensure installers and others involved in the building services engineering sector can access high-quality, industry-led training in a location close to their business.
To find out more about funding, training opportunities and support available visit www.serc.ac.uk.