Brett Forster, Head of Training at NAPIT, discusses the importance of heat pumps, the green skills gap and the transition to net zero.
Decarbonisation is high on the agenda as the new government continues its journey to reach net zero targets. The first-ever Heat Pump Week, held between 23-29 September, aims to unite the heat pump community and engage the government in highlighting the importance of heat pumps in the energy transition.
Low-carbon technologies are key to driving this transition. Through grants such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, key policies, and the commitment to ‘get Britain building again’, the government must have energy efficiency at its focus.
According to data from the Heat Pump Association, UK heat pump annual sales have seen huge growth over the years. In 2019, there were 24,591 heat pump sales in the UK, and in 2023, this figure hit 60,244.
As the demand for heat pumps accelerates, sufficiently skilled installers in the renewable electrical and microgeneration trades will be required. This allows new opportunities for the renewable-led skilled workforce to develop and grow.
NAPIT and its members will play a crucial role in ensuring that there are competent and qualified installers to install heat pumps. Installers need to be supported with the skills and knowledge required to install a heat pump.
As an accredited Microgeneration Certification Scheme provider, low-carbon heat pump training is available across the four NAPIT Training centres.
It’s just as important that consumers are also supported and engaged with the transition to low-carbon heating. Property owners wanting to install low-carbon heating can find a NAPIT registered member that has the right correct training and certification to ensure a compliant install.
NAPIT must continue to highlight the importance of filling the green skills gap to meet the demand for low-carbon technologies such as heat pumps, as we work towards a greener future.
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