New UK heat network courses introduced by BESA to meet demand ahead of Ofgem regulations
Iain Hoey
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Heat networks face new regulatory standards from Ofgem
The UK government’s plans to implement full regulation of heat networks under the energy watchdog Ofgem by 2025 are placing greater emphasis on training and technical standards, according to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA).
The regulation aims to enhance consumer protection and improve network efficiency as the country seeks to expand its district heating capacity, reported BESA.
In support of this goal, six UK regions, including Leeds, Plymouth, Bristol, Stockport, Sheffield, and two areas in London, have received a share of £5.8 million to develop ‘heat network zones.’
The funding will be used to identify optimal locations for new heat networks, utilising data analytics and recycled heat sources to demonstrate large-scale installations serving multiple buildings.
BESA introduces two new training courses to meet workforce demand
As part of efforts to prepare the workforce for an expanded heat network industry, BESA has accredited two new training courses designed to address the expected skills gap in the sector.
The first is a foundational online course aimed at introducing the basics of heat network design, operation, and management for those already in the building services sector.
A second, more advanced course on installation and maintenance combines online theory with practical training, equipping engineers with in-depth knowledge and hands-on skills.
BESA states that these new courses will help to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals able to support both new network installations and upgrades of existing systems that fall short of current technical standards.
Collaboration with industry groups enhances training approach
BESA’s training programmes, launched earlier this year, are part of a broader initiative developed with support from the government and partnerships with the Manufacturers of Equipment for Heat Networks Association (MEHNA) and the Thermal Insulation Contractors’ Association (TICA).
The foundational course covers essential topics like diversified loads, heat interface units (HIUs), water treatment, and thermal insulation, providing a comprehensive understanding of the components required for a well-functioning heat network.
The installation and maintenance course allows engineers to gain specialised skills, supporting their professional growth in this expanding field.
Quality assurance and future workforce demand
The government aims to increase the proportion of heat supplied by networks from the current 2% to 18% by 2050, aligning with its net zero targets.
As the need for heat networks grows, a quality assurance framework is being developed to ensure reliability and performance.
This framework is expected to drive further demand for trained heat network engineers.
Addressing this, Helen Yeulet, BESA’s director of competence and compliance, stated: “This is a great opportunity for anyone considering diversifying into heat networks.
“This technology will play an increasingly important role in the transition to net zero, so it is vital that the country has enough trained installers who can help networks meet their full energy and cost-saving potential.”
New UK heat network courses introduced by BESA to meet demand ahead of Ofgem regulations: Summary
The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has announced two new training courses to support the UK’s growing heat network sector.
These courses respond to expected workforce demands resulting from new Ofgem regulations and government funding, which will help develop heat network zones across six UK regions.
BESA’s foundational course provides a basic understanding of heat networks, while the advanced installation and maintenance course offers specialised, practical training.
Both courses are part of an initiative in partnership with MEHNA and TICA, aimed at increasing the availability of skilled professionals.
With the UK’s goal to expand heat networks from 2% to 18% of national heat distribution by 2050, BESA emphasises the importance of having a trained workforce to meet future technical and quality standards.
