Further to our article emphasising the ongoing need for skilled gas engineers, training providers are offering free training to help gas installers upskill and futureproof their business.
In recognition of the Government’s newly launched Boiler Upgrade Scheme and the opportunities this presents for gas installers, Logic4training is offering free Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) training vouchers for candidates on two of its comprehensive plumbing and heating packages.
Gas is currently the predominant heating fuel in the UK, with 22 million homes currently on mains gas. Even once the Boiler Upgrade Scheme kicks in next April, which will offer funding towards the upgrade of 90,000 homes from fossil fuel boilers to ASHP’s, gas will be the main heat source for many years to come, providing a steady stream of work for engineers – from installation to ongoing servicing and maintenance.
Mark Krull, director for Logic4training, said: “We want our trainees to feel confident that, when they sign up for plumbing and heating training, they are laying strong foundations for the future.
“For the next 20 – 30 years there will still be gas boilers, and if the hydrogen role out kicks off, there will be gas boilers of some description indefinitely.
“Heat pumps are undoubtedly set to play a much bigger part in the UK’s heating landscape, however, so installers should be getting ready for this shift. There’s plenty of time, the transition away from fossil fuels will be gradual, that’s why we’ve left the redemption of the voucher open-ended, so training can be taken when it suits business needs.
“We are living through a period of great environmental awareness and when it comes to reducing the carbon footprint of our homes, heating engineers are at the heart of the action – it’s time to get excited about the pace of change in our sector and embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with it.”