IGEM (The Institution for Gas Engineers & Managers) has held an event for gas professionals to learn how they can benefit from new work through the Government’s Green Deal initiative, which encourages households to sign up for new energy-saving and carbon-footprint reducing technologies.
The event, which attracted around 20 installers and other gas professionals, was organised by IGEM – the Chartered professional membership body for the gas industry – and hosted by member company Brookhouse Training Centre – which specialises in training and qualifications for gas professionals – in Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire on Tuesday, 24 April.
Under the coalition government’s Green Deal. initiative, which will launch later this year, domestic households and businesses will benefit from cheap finance for technologies which will make their properties more environmentally friendly and could reduce energy bills. Examples could include solar power panels, energy saving heat pumps and enhanced insulation.
Only installations which will pay for themselves over time will be fitted, meaning all improvements will be cost-effective for occupants. Green Deal finance will remain attached to the property if occupants decide to sell or move on. At the event, Stephen McKay of BRE Group advised installers how they can win new business by becoming Green Deal Assessors and Installers.
Stephen relayed how gas engineers can become accredited to attend properties and assess which cost-saving and energy efficient improvements might be made, under the terms of Green Deal finance. Attendees left the event with a clear picture of how to become and work as a Green Deal Assessor, alongside their existing installation workloads.
Speaking at the event Stephen said: ““It is vitally important that those involved with Green Deal receive training and accreditation from recognised professional providers to maintain the necessary standard of public confidence and uptake. The wannabees have no place in this market, only those who will serve the client fairly and ensure that they receive the appropriate level of care. BRE has the structures across the UK to assist Gas Engineers to become Assessors or Green Deal Installers through their highly respected Microgeneration Certification Scheme."
James McConnell, Director of Brookhouse Training Centre, an Industrial Affiliate member of IGEM, said: “BTC is pleased to have worked with IGEM to deliver this fantastic event. We’re aware that many installers have very busy schedules, but those which were able to come have gained the knowledge to win new business through the Green Deal”.
Dr Claire Curtis-Thomas, CEO of IGEM, said: “IGEM is pleased that the Green Deal will provide business opportunities for engineering professionals. We are supporting our membership of first class gas industry professionals to maximise their skills and knowledge in this area through several continuous professional development events..”
For further information about IGEM’s events programme and membership benefits, call 0844 375 4436 or visit www.igem.org.uk. For further details about the ‘Green Deal’, visit www.decc.gov.uk