Funding source

NSW DET Industry and Enterprise Skills Program

Project Background

This project is a joint initiative by New South Wales Department of Education and Training (NSW DET) and NSW U&E ITAB. It targets licensed Electricians particularly in rural and regional areas where renewable energy systems are being constructed or are proposed.

Renewable Energy is an emerging industry, and as such there is a shortage of trained competent technicians for installing and maintaining renewable Energy Systems. The ‘Renewable Energy Skills for Electrician’s’ program will assist by up skilling existing tradespeople to be proficient in these technologies to meet current and future demand for sustainable energy practises in NSW.

The renewable energy skills for Electricians program are specifically for training electrical workers and contractors. There is an increasing demand for electricians to be trained in Renewable Energy systems so that they can convert and maintain current power systems in both commercial and domestic applications.

Project Aims/Outcomes

The aim of this project is to modify existing resources created by EE-Oz and Australian Greenhouse Office for Renewable Energy Training and conduct a pilot to trail the resources for Accreditation from Australian Business council for Sustainable Energy (BCSE)

Short term objectives

• Train and accredit existing trades people to be competent for work in renewable energy technologies
• Up skill electricians to be able to install and repair renewable energy systems e.g. wind energy conversion
• Ensure existing trades people have skills that meet the needs of industry
• Provide career path flexibility for existing workers thereby improving industry retention rates
• Address changing skill needs of industry.

Long Term objectives

• Facilitate the wider application of renewable energy technologies
• Encourage the development of a sustainable, internationally competitive renewable energy industry
• Reduce energy costs for industry and households in NSW
• Encourage the use of renewable energy by household and industry.

Project Stages

Pilot to be conducted at Electro-Skills Newcastle.

Project Coordinator

For more information please contact: naomi@uensw.com.au