Minister Kennedy launches energy advice training in Northern Ireland

Dec 2010

A programme to train people in energy advice has been launched in Northern Ireland by the Minister for Employment and Learning, Danny Kennedy. It is part of a campaign to help prepare employers in facilities management (FM), housing and property for a low carbon future.

In launching the programme, Minister Kennedy said: "I am delighted that my department was able to fund this new course which will impact not just on the people being trained and their employers, but will also assist business and homeowners to make their premises and homes more efficient, reduce carbon emissions and save them money on energy costs."

Asset Skills, the Sector Skills Council for FM, housing and property, developed the training in response to a growing demand for qualified energy advisers. The programme has been driven by the commitment to reduce total carbon emissions in the UK by 34% by 2020 and 80% by 2050.

Richard Beamish, Chief Executive of Asset Skills, said: "New skills, knowledge and understanding of green technologies and long-term sustainability issues are increasingly in demand.

"Tighter building regulations are improving the energy efficiency on new buildings, yet staff need to know how to maintain them in an environmentally conscious way. Efficient management of existing buildings is a crucial component in helping the built environment meet these targets.

The Energy Adviser Learning and Qualifications Programme was produced by Asset Skills in partnership with Northern Ireland's Department for Employment and Learning, the North West Regional College, and Belfast Metropolitan College.

There are 30 free places available on the pilot programme which starts in January 2011. The learning involves one-to-one teaching and assessment, practical experience and online study. Candidates will be able to gain two nationally recognised qualifications offered by the Awarding Body for the Built Environment (ABBE). They include the:

• Level 3 Certificate in Energy Advice (Home) - 16 credits
• Level 4 Award in Renewable Technologies - 8 credits
  

The Level 3 Certificate in Energy Advice (Home) - 16 credits

This certificate comprises seven mandatory units, though three of these will not require assessment if the learner has a Diploma in Domestic Energy Assessment or Home Inspection. The other four units include:

• Preparing for the provision of energy advice
• Encouraging clients to reduce their energy consumption
• Developing a plan with a client to reduce energy consumption
• Supporting clients to implement home energy audit reports

The Level 4 Award in Renewable Technologies - 8 credits

The award, still in development, holds eight credits and aims to provide the learner with the skills to understand and give advice on renewable technologies.

Employers in FM, housing or property who would like to express an interest in the pilot should contact Philip Stott by email at pstott@assetskills.org or call 01392 456 825.