OFTEC has announced a new heat pump training course in the UK as it sets out a technology neutral vision for decarbonising the off-grid sector.
The new training course means OFTEC technicians can equip themselves with the skills they need to install a full range of non-gas technologies from heat pumps to renewable liquid fuels.
Working in collaboration with industry experts, the new heat pump training course and assessment package has been developed by a selected working group alongside MCS, including Grant UK, Panasonic, Vaillant, Nationwide Training, Cert-Ain Certification and ERS Certification as representatives of seven UK based accredited certification bodies, a statement said.
David Knipe, pictured, training manager at OFTEC, said: “This is an exciting development for OFTEC and a natural progression as we continue to diversify the training we provide so that heating technicians can futureproof their business. We fully support the commitment to drive down emissions and heat pumps have an important role to play.
“At the same time, we recognise that there is no one size fits all solution and we can’t rely on a single technology. Alongside heat pumps, renewable liquid fuels and solid biomass both have an important role to play, depending on the requirements of the building in question.
“Hybrid systems may become more mainstream in the future and a technician holding both OFTEC’s liquid fuel and heat pump registrations will have a distinct advantage in obtaining additional work.
“If we want decarbonisation to succeed, we must be pragmatic and adopt a technology neutral approach to give consumers a fair choice in how they go green. OFTEC technicians can lead the way in supporting homes and businesses as they make this transition.”