The North East Institute of Technology (NEIoT) has announced the launch of a new suite of retrofit courses designed to address the critical skills shortage in the energy efficiency sector.

Developed in collaboration with industry experts, these bespoke courses aim to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to become "industry-ready" Retrofit Advisors, Assessors, and Coordinators.

Retrofit, which involves upgrading existing homes with energy-efficient measures and renewable technologies, is crucial for achieving the UK's net-zero goals by 2050. With one of the worst energy efficiency ratings in Europe, the UK urgently needs a skilled workforce to decarbonise its housing stock.

The courses are open to both unemployed individuals seeking to reskill and those already working in the construction industry who wish to upskill. Successful completion will result in essential certifications that align with the PAS 2035 quality standard, enabling participants to work in the retrofit sector and contribute to the region's decarbonisation efforts.

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NEIoT director, Sharon Grant has championed the launch of the suite of courses which has been long in the making. She said: "We are thrilled to be accepting applications for the new courses that will address the practical skills needs of the sector. By integrating industry expertise, the courses align with industry standards and best practices while incorporating the latest developments in retrofitting technologies and methodologies.

"The complex nature of the retrofit process and the roles required to deliver to a high standard presents a substantial opportunity for people across the North East and Tees Valley and it’s exciting to be part of the journey."

The courses will be offered by lead NEIoT partner, New College Durham, and collaborating further education institutions Middlesbrough College, East Durham College, and Tyne Coast College at their respective campuses all on a part-time basis.

It is reported that most of the 3.4 million homes in the North East and Yorkshire will require domestic retrofit, and this will require 67,000 new full-time retrofit positions to meet the Government’s 2050 net zero target.

Helping lead the charge in changing the landscape of retrofit training in the region is North of England contractor and NEIoT lead construction partner, Esh Group. Corporate Affairs and ESG Director for Esh, Darush Dodds, has hailed the collaboration between education and industry.

He said: "These courses have been meticulously developed and designed with industry partners at the fore, therefore employers – be that social housing providers, local authorities or those in the supply chain - can be confident that their employees will gain a high quality, accredited learning experience and become skilled retrofit professionals ready for the job at hand."

Courses are fully funded, or part funded, depending on employment status or employer size as a result of Skills Bootcamp and CITB funding. The Retrofit Coordinator and Assessor qualifications are accredited by ABBE, and the Advisor course is accredited by City & Guilds.