LCL approved centre, Narec Distribution Energy (Narec DE), will be providing full funded accredited training to electricians, plumbers and heating engineers on Solar PV, solar thermal and heat pumps to enable installers to meet requirements set out in the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

Based in Northumberland, Narec DE is the only company in a 100-mile radius to provide LCL's nationally accredited renewable qualifications, educating installers on how to safely and efficiently install low carbon technologies. The company is providing free training, on behalf of New College Durham, fully funded by the European Social Fund to help companies and individuals adhere to industry standards.

Taking place at Narec DE’s renewable energy training centre in Blyth the training courses are available to sole traders and SMEs. Set up like a concept house, each room has a different type of renewable energy technology - such as Solar PV, Solar Thermal and Heat Pumps - giving trainees a real hands on training experience.

The courses cover regulations, principles of the technologies and the installation and maintenance of renewable energy technologies, allowing any suitably qualified electrician, plumber or heating engineer to diversify into low carbon technologies.

Speaking about the invaluable experience and training courses, Hayley Corney, Renewable Energy Training Coordinator said: “We are delighted to be offering our many years of expertise in the renewables industry to enable more companies to embrace new technologies and in return reap the benefits whilst also playing a role in helping to build a sustainable environment.

“One of the courses we offer is the heat pump training which we think will be of particular interest as the increasing demand in the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme offered by the government has led to a skill shortage in the industry.”

The technical courses on offer have been developed in compliance to both LCL and MCS requirements. The MCS is an eligibility requirement to receive green energy financial incentives offered by the government such as the Feed-in Tariff and the Renewable Heat Incentive.

Hayley said: “Our courses are available to individuals and small companies whether they are trying to meet their green energy goals or qualify for government-funded energy schemes. Training can be tailored to suit individual or business goals and relevant accreditations will be awarded in recognition of this. Our passion for the renewable energy industry inspired us to provide these courses to increase the use of renewable energy throughout the UK and build a better and more sustainable future.”

Established in 2012, Narec Distribution Energy was started by the UK National Renewable Energy Centre. Narec DE is an organisation that offer strategic, technical and training services within the renewable and low carbon sectors, focusing on the built environment. The purpose of the work is to reduce carbon emissions, alleviate fuel poverty, improve energy security, stimulate economic growth and educate energy users about renewables.

For more information about LCL's renewable qualifications, click here.