Addressing the green skills gap is a major challenge for the UK as we transition to net zero and work towards building a cleaner, greener future. 

But a new partnership between Quantum and Daikin will help to meet the growing demand for skilled workers who can install and maintain decarbonisation technologies, by supporting the training of new installers and the upskilling of existing engineers.

The collaboration will ensure learners have a clear pathway to both enhancing their skills and contributing to a more sustainable country in the years ahead. 

Creating our tomorrow

Quantum and Daikin are working together to attract more young people to the green skills industry and to offer training solutions that combine classroom theory with practical, hands-on experience. 

This partnership aims to ensure young people – as well as experienced plumbing and heating engineers – can access the training courses, equipment and practical experience needed to address the green skills gap and join the decarbonisation workforce of tomorrow. 

Hands-on training

Quantum and Daikin UK’s combined expertise, efficiency and experience has resulted in the rollout of bespoke Renewable Training Facilities, which are available for learners taking courses at Quantum’s HQ in Essex, and for purchase by further education colleges.

This state-of-the-art equipment offers learners hands-on, practical exposure to renewable energy and low carbon technologies, to support and enhance the theoretical knowledge they learn in the classroom. 

The Renewable Training Facilities cover core systems including solar thermal, solar PV, EV charging and battery energy storage, plus air source heat pumps. 

A growing industry

Quantum and Daikin UK’s vision for the partnership is that it attracts more people to the green skills industry in the years ahead – and demand for skilled renewables engineers is increasing.  

The UK aims to be net zero by 2050, with a 78 per cent reduction in emissions by 2035. 

An estimated 400,000 roles will need to be filled to meet such targets and build a net zero energy workforce to meet increased demand for renewable energy production, according to the National Grid. Of this, 260,000 will be new roles, the rest replacing those who have left the workforce.

National Grid research also found that more than three-quarters of UK adults (78%) want to play their part in reaching the UK’s net zero goal. 

Gas boilers are being phased out and the UK Government has set a target to have 600,000 heat pumps installed each year by 2028. But it is estimated there are only 3,000 trained heat pump engineers in the UK – yet at least 27,000 will be needed in the next six years, according to social good charity Nesta.

Some £1.6 billion has also been committed by the Government to expand the electric vehicle charging network, with around 300,000 public chargers set to be available by 2030. 

Green skills gap

Maria Gonella, Managing Partner at Quantum, said: “This collaboration is a significant step towards addressing the UK’s green skills gap and accelerating the transition to a net zero workforce. 

“Together, we hope to truly impact the renewable training industry from its source – further education – to ensure our nation’s path to a sustainable future is taking shape from the roots, our future workforce.

“By combining Quantum’s sector-leading training expertise and vision with Daikin’s manufacturing excellence, this partnership will offer a comprehensive learning experience that aligns with the needs of both students and employers.

“I am incredibly proud of this partnership, which is an exciting milestone for both Quantum and Daikin. I’d also like to acknowledge the incredible work of the Quantum team. We would not be in the position we are today without their dedication and collaboration. Thank you.”

Martin Passingham, Product and Training Manager at Daikin UK, said: “Demand for heat pumps is growing rapidly thanks to the impending ban on gas boilers in new homes and government incentives to upgrade to low carbon heating. It’s never been more important for heating installers to upskill and ensure that they are prepared for the future. Our partnership with Quantum makes it easier than ever to do exactly that.

“There is a real need for highly trained professionals and skilled installers that are up to the challenge of supporting this renewables revolution. Working with an installer accredited by our Renewable Training Facilities will give homeowners the reassurance to make the vital transition to heat pumps and play their part in the country’s journey to net zero.”

 “This innovative partnership underlines Daikin’s commitment to playing a leading role in decarbonising the UK’s domestic and commercial heating.”

Our vision for a greener future

Quantum was established in 1997 and is now an industry-leading decarbonisation specialist and renewable training provider. We offer bespoke energy-saving and low carbon system designs and installations for the built environment. In parallel, our renewable training business provides a range of training products and services dedicated to accelerating the transition to a net zero workforce. By equipping both students and engineers with the necessary green skills, we aim to contribute to achieving our broader net zero climate ambitions in the future.

Our collaborative approach with industry stakeholders helps us remain at the forefront of the renewable energy sector. Our mission is to leverage our industry expertise to deliver the most efficient sustainable energy solutions and training opportunities available, to drive the acceleration towards a greener future.

We have been building our Renewable Training Business since June 2021 and are now a leading training provider for existing engineers and students in further education. 

Our expert team can also assist colleges with the process of public funding support for green skills training packages, such as the Local Skills Improvement Fund. 

More information

More information about Quantum’s courses, Renewable Training Facilities and ‘Train the Green Trainer’ Academy can be obtained on our website’s dedicated Training section. You can also contact Jade Husson, Business Development, at [email protected]

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 About Daikin UK 

Daikin UK is an eco-heating technology brand leading the industry in providing innovative indoor climate management solutions, such as heat pumps, to reduce environmental impact. As part of the global Daikin Group and with almost 100 years of experience, Daikin has built a worldwide reputation for quality and technology, developing heating solutions that create comfortable and sustainable interior environments for everyone.

In 2020, Daikin launched its Energy for Change campaign, which aims to educate consumers on the benefits of heat pumps and promote their installation – helping the UK move to a more sustainable future. As part of its Energy for Change campaign, Daikin has created the Sustainable Home Network to provide top quality, free heat pump training to installers across the UK, helping them futureproof their businesses and support the UK’s transition towards green energy. 

Additional information on Daikin’s pioneering technology can be found on its website, alongside details on why choosing a heat pump could help reduce UK homes’ carbon emissions: www.daikin.co.uk