Greener Heat for Homes (Upskilling Academy)
Ready to upskill for a greener future?
The Greener Heat for Homes Academy is a fully funded training programme for residents of our area. It is designed to help you gain in-demand qualifications and step confidently into the fast-growing renewables industry.
Whether you're starting fresh or looking to upskill, this is your chance to build a rewarding career while supporting a cleaner, greener future.
Spaces are limited – apply now and take the first step toward your next opportunity.
| Course title | Course length | Requisites | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation Certificate in Basic Heating and Hot Water System Design & Specification | 2 days | None | Suitable for installers who have recently entered the industry, or have little or no experience in heating system design. Useful for candidates moving into the renewables industry – In particular, the installation of air source heat pumps. |
| Level 2 Award in Hydrogen Applications and Technologies | 1 day | None | Learners will gain a better understanding of the current uses of hydrogen and the applications of hydrogen for energy within the home as an alternative to fossil fuel (gas), and as an available high energy source. |
| OFTEC 50 - Oil Fired Introductory Course: With an emphasis on HVO | 2 days | None | Includes an intensive and detailed overview of the oil-fired heating sector, and a sound knowledge of the practical skills required to perform everyday tasks. This programme will focus on Bio/HVO Oil as an alternative to fossil fuel oil. |
| C&G Level 2 Award in Retrofit | 2 days | None | Suitable for tradespeople who desire to develop or improve their knowledge of retrofit in the construction industry, or those without retrofit experience (electricians, joiners, plumbers, plasterers, bricklayers etc) who may wish to work in the related field of retrofit professional roles such as a retrofit assessor. |
| OCN NI Level 2 Reducing Energy in Buildings | 1 day | None | Ideal for individuals working in, or interested in the renewable energy and sustainable construction sectors. It provides essential knowledge on insulation, mechanical ventilation, and emerging green technologies, equipping learners with the skills to support carbon reduction in domestic dwellings. |
| Level 3 in Design of Heat Pump Systems | 3 days | Applicants must hold a nationally recognised qualification and/or registration in a trade associated with heating and/or plumbing work or heat pump design work for a period of not less than two years. | Ideal for experienced heating and plumbing professionals looking to upskill in the design of low-carbon heating systems. With a focus on heat pump technologies, learners will gain essential knowledge and hands-on experience in designing systems that comply with modern standards and support the transition away from fossil fuels. |
| Level 3 Award in Design, Installation and Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems | 2 days | Applicants must hold 18th Edition Certificate and Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification | Ideal for electricians and electrotechnical professionals looking to update their skills in line with evolving energy technologies. Equips learners with knowledge and competencies required to work with EESS in accordance with modern standards - A valuable step for anyone committed to advancing in the renewable energy or electrical installation sector. |
| Level 3 Award in Design, Installation and Maintenance of Small Scale Solar Photovoltaic Systems | 3 days | Applicants must hold 18th Edition Certificate and Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification |
This course will cover the regulatory, practical, and technical requirements for safe and compliant Solar PV installation and maintenance, through guided classroom instruction and practical workshop sessions, as the demand for clean, renewable energy grows. |
| Level 3 Award in the Installation and Commissioning of Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment | 3 days | Applicants must hold 18th Edition Certificate and Level 3 Electrotechnical Qualification | This qualification covers the installation of dedicated conductive charging equipment for the charging of pure electric and plug-in hybrid electric road vehicles (PHEV) and includes the extended range of electric vehicles. |
| Level 3 Award in Hot Water Systems and Safety (including Unvented Hot Water) | 1 day | It is essential that HWSS candidates will be experienced in the installation of cold and hot water systems. | Ideal for experienced plumbing and heating operatives aiming to work with unvented hot water systems, and one of the pre-reqs for Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps. |
| Level 3 Certification in Water Regulations | 1 day | Plumbers should normally have a minimum of two years’ experience in the sector. | Ideal for plumbers aiming to broaden their professional qualifications. With a strong focus on compliance, practical knowledge, and career progression, learners will gain a solid understanding of water regulations and backflow prevention, improving their employability and service offerings. This is one of the pre-reqs for Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps. |
| Level 3 Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Air Source Heat Pumps | 3 days | Applicants must be a qualified Plumber, Gas Safe Registered Engineer, OFTEC Registered Oil Operative, or current MCS Installer, and hold Water Regulations and Unvented Hot Water Systems |
As the UK moves toward carbon reduction and sustainable energy targets, demand for qualified heat pump installers is rapidly increasing. This course is ideal for heating engineers, plumbers, and renewables contractors seeking to expand their services into low-carbon technologies. |
Eligibility criteria
You must be:
- a resident of Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council
- over 18 years of age
Course details:
• Start Date: Multiple dates available
• Times: Course duration ranges between one and three days
Interested in finding out more?
Please contact: