Segen has announced the launch of the Segen Academy, located in Medway, Rochester.
According to a company statement, the new academy will have the capacity to train approximately 1,600 installers annually.
It will equip apprentices and electricians with essential skills for the expanding solar PV, battery energy storage system (BESS), heat pump and electric vehicle (EV) markets, the company said. Additionally, the academy is to support existing renewables companies to upskill their installation teams, it noted
James Galloway, global product director at Segen, said: “To achieve the national target of 70GW of solar deployment by 2035, the UK will require at least three times more qualified tradespeople. As the leading renewables distributor in the country, we recognise our unique responsibility to tackle this skills gap head-on. With the launch of the Segen Academy, we are committed to driving change in the renewable energy sector and equipping the next generation of installers for a sustainable future.”
Segen stated that the academy’s curriculum has been developed based on comprehensive research and feedback from the existing installer community, alongside guidance from key industry organisations including MCS and regional public sector education provider, the New City Trade Skills College. It added that trainees will benefit from LCL accredited courses covering best practices in the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of solar PV, BESS, heat pump, and EV charging technologies. The City & Guilds 18th Edition Wiring Regulations (2382-22) course will also be offered.
The curriculum will also include modules on soft skills such as finance, sales and strategies for growing renewable energy businesses.
Training will be available to existing Segen customers as well as companies and individuals who open a new account with the company. Segen said its commitment includes reimbursing up to 100% of training costs to support as many apprentices and electricians as possible to transition to the renewables sector.
Liz Cammack, VP sales at Segen, added: “By providing a clear pathway to help more people to become qualified renewables installers and by enabling existing installers to continually improve their skills and knowledge, Segen is poised to make a significant contribution to the industry. This initiative will not only create vital employment opportunities but will also play an important role in achieving national climate targets.”