Four organisations are working together to provide free and subsidised courses designed to support the move to NetZero for the region.
Havant Borough Council and Portsmouth City Council are working in partnership with City of Portsmouth College and SERT Group Ltd to provide Green skills training to help people gain skills for the future.
Using UK Shared Prosperity Funding, this initiative will help prepare those who are self-employed, as well as small to medium-sized businesses by offering free or subsidised accredited courses.
Focussing on increasing skills and awareness of sustainable and net zero skills – some of the courses on offer include:
- Electrical energy storage systems
- Solar PV Installation
- Solar & Battery Combined
- Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) training*
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger point
There are many more courses available as part of this scheme that offer accredited green skills to qualified Electricians and Gas Engineers allowing them to upskill into the installation and servicing of sustainable energy systems.
The Leader of Havant Borough Council, Councillor Phil Munday, said: “We are really proud to be working with our neighbouring authority and leading training providers to deliver skills for the future.
“Current and future policies will require very high standards when it comes to sustainable construction and this programme will equip our local tradespeople with the skills they need.”
The Leader of Portsmouth City Council, Councillor Steve Pitt, who also has responsibility for economic development said: “By working together with Havant Borough Council and local training providers, we are delighted to unlock valuable training opportunities for our residents and businesses. Investing in a highly skilled workforce is the cornerstone for a thriving local economy. As we strive for a sustainable future, green skills training is a top priority.”
Businesses wanting to know more information should contact their local Economic Development team:
Havant Borough Council: Economic_Development@havant.gov.uk
Portsmouth City Council: business@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call 023 9284 1641.
*For ASHP qualifications interested parties must already be qualified as Gas Engineers
**Green Electrical courses are open to qualified Electricians.
***Any individuals not in employment looking to gain qualifications in Green Skills please contact your local council on the details above as there are various skills interventions on offer.
More information can be found by visiting the SERT Training and the City of Portsmouth College websites.