With tens of millions of homes YET to have smart meters installed, utilities and energy skills specialist Develop Training Ltd (DTL) has ramped up its programme to tackle the skills crisis that threatens to derail the rollout.
As DTL reported, the government originally required suppliers to install smart meters in the homes of all domestic customers and small businesses by the end of 2020. Even though the government has back-pedalled on that requirement, DTL still expects to see a spike in demand for trained installers through 2018 and beyond.
In response, the training company has created a new smart meter team, and is now delivering specialist courses at its Swindon centre as well as at its headquarters in Derby and bases in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Yorkshire.
The new team comprises qualified lecturers with hands-on experience of smart meter installation, led by Gavin Davies, DTL’s Delivery Manager for Energy. Gavin had ten years’ experience in the domestic gas industry prior to moving into education. He is supported by Nicola Smith, Lee Morgan and David Hudson.
Smart meter installers are responsible for the installation, exchange, commission, maintenance and eventual decommissioning of smart meter systems. Many more installers are required nationwide. In most cases, even experienced engineers require upskilling to carry out smart meter installations.
DTL has recognised the UK’s need to bring on more talented engineers to support the smart metering initiative.
DTL offers a variety of smart meter training courses and supporting resources to aid employers in developing a competent, qualified and accredited workforce for the future. These include:
- Smart meter upskilling to MOCOPA (for existing gas installers)
- Upskilling to gas via Guild of Gas Fitting Operatives (GGFO) Foundation
- Upskilling for all installer levels
- Trailblazer apprenticeship (for new entrants to the industry)
- Mentoring & coaching for smart meter supervisors
- City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in Smart Metering (for those with some relevant knowledge & skills)
For more information please visit: www.developtraining.co.uk
