Better access to renewables for installers in Scotland

Following the launch of its E-Tec Hybrid, Alpha recognises that many installers will be needing support with the transition to renewable heating systems. It is therefore running a one-day Hybrid Heat Pump course that covers: key features of the Alpha hybrid solution; considerations when fitting a heat pump; system design; positioning; and installation.

Alongside this, Alpha continues to run its Domestic Boiler and Commercial Boiler Courses. Both one-day sessions offer interactive experience of installation, commissioning, servicing and diagnostics of the range of high efficiency domestic and commercial boilers. Available to Gas Safe registered engineers, attendees receive first-hand experience of installation, commissioning, servicing and diagnostics. As with the Hybrid course, there is no charge to attend these, and refreshments and lunch are provided.

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Renewable center opens up at Harlow

A partnership between Mitsubishi Electric and Harlow College has established The Renewable Energy Training Centre, which aims to train the next generation of heating engineers in the use of green technologies.

Extending the reach of its Glasgow Centre of Excellence, Vaillant has opened a new partner centre in Aberdeen, Scotland, in collaboration with the Aberdeen Training Centre, to provide expanded training facilities and support for installers transitioning to heat pumps and low carbon technologies.

The new centre is intended to increase accessibility to low carbon training for installers across Scotland who previously may have been unable to attend courses in Glasgow. Several key products have been installed at the centre, including the aroTHERM plus air source heat pump, so installers are able to get valuable hands-on experience of the technology, as well as having the opportunity to ask questions in a training environment.

Speaking about the partnership, Mark Wilkins, training and technologies director at Vaillant, says: “We’re delighted to be able to further expand our comprehensive training offering to even more installers, ensuring the necessary skills and knowledge are in place to enjoy a successful and rewarding career in the industry.”

Steve Anderson, MD at Aberdeen Training Centre, adds: “With many parts of Scotland being remote, access to training can be challenging. Our partnership with Vaillant opens the doors for even more installers looking to invest in training, ready for a low carbon future.”

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The new centre will train students on installing and maintaining renewable energy appliances. Work stations will allow them to develop an understanding of how to install and maintain air source heat pumps. The college tutors are certified to a minimum of NVQ Level 3 as qualified plumbing and heating engineers. They have also undertaken specific Ecodan product installation training at Mitsubishi Electric’s Training Centre in to be working with support their Renewable Energy Training Centre. Collaborations such as this can help ensure that future generations have access to the training and knowledge needed to build a greener, more sustainable future as we aim to achieve net zero.”

Hatfield, Hertfordshire.

The centre will also be fully equipped with six Mitsubishi Electric Ecodan air source heat pumps, roof-mounted photovoltaic solar panels, associated collection points and energystorage unit, and two electric vehicle charging points. The solar panels will provide enough energy to power the centre, and any extra energy will be put back into the National Grid.

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Path to join WIAPS approved contractor scheme

The Water Regulations course from LCL Awards has been officially recognised by Water Regs UK as meeting the minimum competency requirements for plumbers who wish to join the WIAPS Approved Contractor Scheme.

The course leading to the LCWR23 is a necessary requirement for qualified plumbers (holding as a minimum an NVQ Level 2) looking to join their local Approved Plumber Scheme (WIAPS) or WaterSafe.

It covers the background and legislation relating to the Water Regulations, including design and installation requirements for water fittings and pipes in both hot and cold-water services. In addition to featuring internal water-based systems, such as WCs, baths and sinks, the qualification also covers the regulations relating to external water supplies, for agricultural or similar use.

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