A new package of ‘green’ qualifications is being offered by Business Link, throughout the South East, to help companies train specialist staff to make the most of the opportunities being created by the increased interest in environmental issues.

The course titles, which will all result in NVQ level 3 or 4 are: Biomass Heating (Installation and Maintenance); Energy Assessment in Buildings; Design and Installation of Solar PV and Micro-Wind Systems; Design and Installation of Solar Thermal Systems; Waste Awareness for Business; Recycling and Sustainable Procurement; Integrating Renewable Technologies; Thermal Modelling; Management and Standards in Construction Resource Efficiency; and Construction Waste Management and Minimisation.

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Climate change and the response to it are creating new markets largely due to new legislation and government programmes. More stringent building standards, the supply of bio fuels and the generation of renewable energy could all be big business for companies willing to invest in the new technologies.

Business Link is now offering companies the chance to train their staff through the new Regional Resource Centre for Environmental Technology Skills (RRCETS) which is co-financed by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) and the European Social Fund.

Business Link’s Kim Fletcher said: “These courses present a real opportunity for small businesses to invest in the application and use of future technologies that customers are beginning to demand. By ensuring these short courses are accredited, they form a firm base from which small businesses can create an expert niche, grow their businesses and increase their profits.

“According to research by Shell, the compliance market - helping companies to comply with new legislation - will provide the most opportunities and will be worth an estimated £30bn over the next 10 years.”

For more information on the courses available call 0845 600 9 006 or visit www.rrcets.co.uk

(CL)