Skills shortages in the green revolution: Do we have enough heat pump engineers?

• The UK needs more skilled heat pump engineers to meet its goal of installing 600,000 heat pumps by 2028.
• Heating engineers can qualify with short courses, while others need formal training and certifications like NVQ, CCN1, OFTEC, and HETAS.
• Heat pumps offer growing, profitable work, with demand for qualified installers expected to rise steadily.

Heat pumps are coming, but do we have enough skilled engineers to install them?

The UK is aiming to install 600,000 heat pumps by 2028 as part of its drive towards net-zero. But there’s a growing issue: not enough skilled workers to get the job done. The demand for heat pump engineers is increasing rapidly, and the shortage of qualified installers is becoming a real concern.

So, how can someone become a heat pump engineer?

For current heating engineers, it’s relatively simple. A few short training courses on heat pump installation are all that’s required. But for those without formal qualifications, it takes a bit more effort. They’ll need to complete training similar to that of a heating engineer.

To start, they need a Level 2 or Level 3 NVQ or SVQ in plumbing, heating, ventilation, gas, or oil installation and maintenance. Other key qualifications include a valid Core Gas Safety (CCN1) certificate with CENWAT, an OFTEC Oil certificate, and a HETAS certificate for wet systems. Practical experience is also essential—typically 2-3 years of installing wet central heating systems.

Becoming certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is another step required for many installers. This ensures they meet industry standards.

Heat pumps are the future of clean energy in the UK. For those looking to enter the industry, it’s a growing and profitable market. The need for skilled engineers will only increase in the coming years, offering steady and well-paying work for those who get qualified.