Funding to Train New Energy Efficiency, Automotive and Wind Professionals

Supported by the Scottish Funding Council and the Scottish Government Energy Efficiency training funding are now available through the National Transition Training Fund for people resident in Scotland that have lost their jobs, are at risk of redundancy or those that have identified a skills gap in their current job.

ESP will be distributing funding through 11 partner colleges across Scotland to allow them to upskill tradespeople and help them move into roles with better potential for future growth and job retention.

It will offer training opportunities in areas with the potential for growth in the labour market with employment prospects.  Energy / energy efficiency will be a key focus with training available in areas such as: air source/ground source heat pumps, solar thermal, Global Wind Organisation Basic Technical Training and electric vehicle maintenance as well as the more conventional 18th edition electrical training.

Training must be completed by the 31 July 2022.

Eligibility criteria for AY 2021-22 has been broadened to include the following characteristics. Candidates must be 25+ years old and either:  

• unemployed, at risk of redundancy or their job under threat as a result of COVID-19 or the economic impact of EU Exit, or
• have identified a skills gap in their current job or to return to employment, or 
• have identified a skills gap as part of the ‘Just Transition’ to net zero. 

Applications can be made by an individual or their employer.

Jim Brown, Director of ESP, said:

“The National Transition Training Fund, in association with the Scottish Funding Council and the Scottish Government, is another excellent opportunity for industry. It is designed for those in skilled trades to upskill or retrain in technologies that support Scotland’s transition to Net Zero by developing the skills that will reduce demand for heat, install renewable heat measures, support the onshore and offshore wind sector and decarbonising transport. ESP are delighted to be working with Scottish Government and the Scottish Funding Council to support this critical aspect in delivering Net Zero for Scotland.”

James Dunphy, Scottish Funding Council – Director for Access, Learning and Outcomes, said:

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on our economy and on the employment of thousands of people across the country.  Colleges will play a vital role in supporting economic recovery and providing reskilling and upskilling opportunities.  We are delighted to be supporting this initiative which is being run by ESP in collaboration with colleges to deliver training opportunities in areas of potential growth that will meet the needs of employers and individuals impacted by the economic downturn.”