Green Technologies


Upskilling, Reskilling & Innovation Support

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South Eastern Regional College (SERC) is excited to provide a series of Green Technology programmes which are aimed at those in the energy and renewable sector who are looking to Upskill, Reskill & Innovate. 

We have courses running September 2022- June 2023. See list below. 

Further information on courses can be found by contacting Kelly Donnelly: E: kdonnelly@serc.ac.uk T: 07866 146 618

 

Air Source Heat Pump Design

 

LCL Awards Level 3 Award in Low Temperature Heating and Hot Water Systems in Dwellings.

This qualification has been designed with the CIPHE and the Heat Pump Association with the help of their members to meet the need for now and the future that all heating systems be designed with a low temperature aim from the outset to maximize efficiency of the system. The objective of this qualification is for learners to be up-skilled to the concept of low temperature heating systems, it will allow them to demonstrate their knowledge and understand the need and requirements for installing low temperature heating and hot water systems in dwellings.

The Learner will:

  • Know the latest industry standards and regulatory framework relating to heating design.
  • Know the requirements for undertaking a room by room heat loss for a property.
  • Know how to correctly size heat emitters for low temperature heating systems.
  • Know how to correctly size pumps and pipework.
  • Know how to correctly size a domestic hot water system.
  • Know the basic design principles of system configurations.

Assessment: e-Assessment and design scenarios

Duration: 2 days

Location: Professional Skills Centre Dundrod

See link for further information low temp design information and prerequisites

 

Air Source Heat Pumps Installation (Core and Air Source Units)

 

LCL Awards Level 3 Award in the Installation and Maintenance of Heat Pump Systems (non-refrigerant circuits)

LCL-R3035 Core Unit

  • The learner will know what a heat pump is, the principle of the vapour compression system and system components.
  • The learner will know the different operational characteristics of each type of heat pump unit and system arrangement.
  • The learner will know the fundamental principles of heat pump efficiency and design selection that are common for heat pumps.
  • The learner will know the fundamental principles of domestic hot water cylinder selection and system design that are common for heat pumps.
  • The learner will know the fundamental principles of hydraulic system design that are common for heat pumps.
  • The learner will know the fundamental principles of heat pump controls.
  • The learner will know how to plan and prepare for the installation of heat pumps.
  • The learner will know the requirements to install and test heat pump systems.
  • The learner will understand the requirements to commission heat pump system installations.
  • The learner will understand the requirements to handover heat pump system installations.
  • The learner will know the requirements for the handover of a heat pump installation The learner will know the requirements for routine service and maintenance of a heat pump system installation.
  • The learner will undertake fault diagnosis work on a heat pump system installation.

 LCL-R3036. Air Source Unit

  • The learner will know the preparatory work required for the installation of an air source heat pump.
  • The learner will know the common requirements for the installation of an air source heat pump connected to hydraulic emitter circuits.
  • The learner will install heat pump units (non-refrigeration units).
  • The learner will test and commission an air source heat pump system (non-refrigerant circuits).
  • The learner will be able to undertake the non-refrigerant circuit routine service and maintenance of an air source heat pump system (non-refrigerant circuits).

Assessment: e-Assessment and practical scenarios

Duration: 3 days

Location: Professional Skills Centre Dundrod

See link for further information heat pump installers information and prerequisites

 

Level 3 Award in Design, Installation & Commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems

 

This regulated qualification is for those wishing to achieve a nationally recognised qualification in the design, installation and commissioning of Electrical Energy Storage Systems. The qualification has been designed in conjunction with the latest IET Code of Practice and is recognised by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).The learner will know:

  • The key requirements for installation of electrical energy storage systems.
  • The learner will know and identify equipment, arrangements and operating modes of electrical energy storage systems.
  • The learner will understand the preparation of design and installation of electrical energy storage systems.
  • The learner will be able to prepare for the installation of electrical energy storage systems.
  • The learner will be able to install electrical energy storage systems.
  • The learner will understand requirements for initial verification and handover of electrical energy storage systems.
  • The learner will be able to conduct initial verification and handover of electrical energy storage systems.

Pre-requisites: This qualification is aimed at practising electricians, electrical technicians and engineers with experience of electrical installations, and associated inspection and testing.

Duration: 3 days

 

Level 3 Award in the installation & Maintenance of Small Scale Photovoltaic PV systems 
 

This qualification is primarily aimed at fully qualified electricians (with 18th Edition). Non-electrically competent persons are welcome, provided they have a vested interest in solar PV systems.

Pre-requisites: A Level 3 Electrotechnical N/SVQ qualification or equivalent, plus, a current Level 3 qualification in the Requirements for Electrical Installations BS7671:2018, plus, a Level 3 qualification in the Initial Verification and Certification of Electrical Installations

Duration: 4 days

 

Level 3 Award in the Installation & Commissioning of Electrical Vehicle Charging Equipment in Domestic, Commercial & Industrial Locations 

 

This qualification is now updated to the 4th edition of the Code of Practise and is aimed at practicing electricians, electrical technicians and engineers with experience of electrical installations, and associated inspection and testing.This qualification covers the installation of dedicated conductive charging equipment for the charging of pure electric and plug-in hybrid electric road vehicles (PHEV) and includes the extended range of electric vehicles (E-REV). It covers the installation of both AC and DC charging equipment intended for plug-in electric vehicles (PEV) complying with BS EN 61851 and “The Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installations”.

Pre-requisites: This qualification is aimed at practicing electricians, electrical technicians and engineers with experience of electrical installations, and associated inspection and testing.

Duration: 3 Days

 

WRAS Water Regulations Certificate 
 

This course is for heating and plumbing installers who need to gain the knowledge of the Water Regulations (1999) before applying to join their local water authorities “Water Industry Approved Plumber Scheme”. The course is made up of one multiple choice written assessment, you will be required to attend college for 1 full day. The cost of the course includes training, assessment and te certification fee. Course Modules are: Water regulations interpretation and definitions, Requirements, design and installation, Hot and cold water services, Materials and substances, Backflow and contamination prevention, Flushing devices, Sanitary appliances; both internal and external.

Pre-requisites: Candidates should ideally have two years plumbing experience.

Duration: 1 Day

 

Unvented Hot Water (Systems & Safety)
 

The aim of this course is to train candidates in the installation and safety requirements of unvented hot water cylinders. The candidate will also gain an understanding of Building Regulation Part G3. The programme will provide an extensive insight into Unvented Hot Water Cylinders and will prepare candidates for end of programme examinations leading to recommendation to Blueflame for certification. Upon completion of the course the candidate will be able to:  Recognise the various forms of hot water supplies, State the functional requirements of Unvented Domestic Hot Water systems, Design an Unvented system to comply with Part G of the Building Regulations, Carry out commissioning of an Unvented System State and rectify common causes of faults in an Unvented System.

Pre-requisites: It is essential that HWSS candidates will be experienced in the installation of domestic cold and hot water systems. It is also essential that they hold one DCLG recognised competency in a conventional fuel i.e. gas, oil or solid fuel; or for those in the plumbing field an NVQ level 2 or equivalent plumbing qualification or experience.

Duration: 1 day

 

Decarbonisation of Carbon Fuels & Process Innovation in HVO Heating Appliances
 

SERC has developed a partnership with EOGB modulating boilers which use HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil).  These are a replacement heating appliance for oil boilers and EOGB are the first company to produce a fully modulating, low NOx appliance which incorporates the following:

  • The Sapphire blue flame boiler provides heating engineers with a solution to fit efficient oil boilers with significantly lower NOx.
  • Reduced heating bills for their customers due to the first fully modulating HVO bioliquid The combustion process that takes place within a blue flame burner differs to and is much cleaner than in standard yellow flame burners.
  • The combustion gases within a blue flame burner are re-circulated through a specially designed longer blast tube which has a ring of slots within the combustion chamber. This design allows the combustion gases to mix with atomised droplets of fuel and fresh air (oxygen)drawn in through the burner, to produce a clean blue flame which has much lower NOx emissions.
  • The important thing to remember is that blue flame technology remains highly efficient with the added benefit of significantly lower levels of NOx emissions to current legislation.
  • Modulation reduces the volume of CO2 - Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere by percentage/volume, this can only be measured through flue gas analysis and comparable equivalence in similar volumes of POC - Product of combustion from non-modulating fossil fuel appliances, furthermore EOGB appliances reduce the NOX & SOX (Nitrous Oxide & Sulphur Oxide) emissions responsible for Acid Rain, again only measurable through flue gas analysis.

Pre-requisites: OFTEC or Gas Safe registration is desirable and a knowledge of plumbing and geating systems is essential

Duration: 30 hrs

 

Introduction to Low Energy Buildings
 

The purpose of this Low Energy Building Course is to create an awareness of both new and retrofit dwellings that are high quality, safe and fit for the future. This course aims to clarify the impacts and timescales of Low Energy Buildings and to get the candidate thinking about how to prepare for what should be the most radical shake-up of the energy efficiency of domestic dwellings within both the construction and building services industry in a generation.

  • Lower U-Values by improving Insulation throughout the entire structure.
  • Continuous Airtight seals such Wind/Vapour Barriers.
  • Thermal Bridging both in Wall and Window installation.
  • High Performance External Doors and Glazing.
  • Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery.  

Pre-requisites: Desirable construction or engineering background

Duration: 2 days

 

Introduction to Hydrogen
 

Hydrogen Awareness – brief introduction to the current gas network, pipework systems, meters, regulators and appliance types. History of Hydrogen use and recent developments. UK Government Strategy for Net Zero 2050. Properties of Hydrogen. Manufacturer of Hydrogen – Grey, Blue and Green. Combustion in Hydrogen – Dangers of H2 use. Gas infrastructure innovation. Appliance innovation. Pure gas pipework systems, limitations and consideration of material types.

Pre-requisites: Desirable construction or engineering background

Duration: 2 days

  

Level 3 NVQ in Plumbing

 

Level 3 is for candidates who have significant years of relevant plumbing and heating knowledge and skills, usually from a role where you've been self-employed plumber or in a supervisory capacity. Gas Safe and OFTEC registration would be beneficial on application, as there is a formal professional interview to ascertain your previous knowledge and skill level within the plumbing and heating industry. Evidence from practical jobs on site will be required, as will certain centre based tasks and GOLA online unit exams. Pre-requisites: Current experience of plumbing, heating, gas or oil installations and systems. Presentation to college assessment team of previous work in this industry, gas qualifications or similar evidence routes to identify years of experience.

Duration: 12 months

 

Water Safety in Health Care

This course is for staff involved in the operation of building water systems within hospitals and healthcare environments. This includes Plumbing Installers, Heating Technicians, Design Engineers, Maintenance Personnel as well as staff responsible for Infection Control and Water Treatment services. Some of the content involved in the course will be: How to improve patient safety in daily work duties by work processes, The microbiology and health effects of water borne bacteria that can cause harm to human health, Prevention and control of the risks associated with the management of water –borne bacteria, Application of relevant legislation within day-to-day duties, Ability to understand and demonstrate the correct protocols for working on and around water systems within healthcare, How to communicate, manage and understand how actions impact on the protection of vulnerable patients, Practical workshop demonstrations on fault identification and processes will be included on the course as well.

Duration: 1 day  

 

Legionella for Operators or Managers
 

The Legionella Prevention and Water Treatment course is designed to help plumbers; operators and managers comply with the Code of Practice.   The course will help learners comply with their legal duties including identifying and assessing sources of risk, preparing a scheme to prevent or control risk, implementing, managing and monitoring precautions and keeping records of control measures taken.

Pre-requisites: Although there are no formal pre-requisites to this qualification, applicants should be working within the industry.

Duration: 1 Day

 

OCN NI Level 5 Award/Certificate/Extended Certificate in Green Technologies
 

 

The aim of the OCN NI Level 5 Award, Certificate and Extended Certificate in Green Technologies is to provide the learner with an understanding of the application of green technologies including installation practices and processes.

  • Solar Photo Voltaic Systems (9 Credits)
  • Anaerobic Digestion (10 Credits)
  • Solar Thermal Decarbonisation of Hot Water Systems (8 Credits)
  • Electrical Vehicle Charging Systems (10 Credits)
  • Ground and Air Source Heat Pumps (10 Credits)
  • Hydrogen Production Systems and Technologies (10 Credits)
  • Sustainable Alternative Biofuels (7 Credits)
  • Electrical Energy Storage Systems (9 Credits)

All units have a mix of both practical and theory training and also require online assignments completion as well as practical assessments.

 

OCN NI Level 5 Qualification in Retrofitting Domestic Properties
 

Building energy retrofitting provides substantial opportunities to reduce the level of building energy consumption, saves cost, improves comfort level, and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions. Building retrofitting is a form of technical intrusion in the energy system of a building to effectively utilize its energy. Retrofitting homes not only cuts carbon emissions, but it also makes it cheaper to heat our homes and overcomes issues around poor ventilation and damp. This helps lift people out of fuel poverty and reduces health problems associated with cold homes.

The operation of buildings accounts for around 15% of UK carbon emissions. A considerable portion of which is attributable to our homes. Reducing carbon emissions from existing homes represents one of the biggest challenges facing the UK in our transition to a net zero economy by 2050. In fact, greening the UK’s housing stock would mean retrofitting 1 million homes every single year for the next 30 years. Comprises a mix of online learning and assignments with 4 optional units which have practical training and practical assessments.

  • Unit 001: Demonstrate an Understanding of Domestic Deep Energy Retrofit (GLH 5) 1 credit
  • Unit 002: Evaluate existing domestic buildings for Retrofitting (GLH 15) 3 credits
  • Unit 003: Determine Thermal Efficiency & Moisture Risks within Retrofit Buildings (GLH 30) 6 credits
  • Unit 004: Improvement Options for Retrofit Buildings (GLH 15) 3 credits
  • Unit 005: Air Tightness and Ventilation in Retrofit Buildings (GLH 15) 3 credits Unit
  • 006: Upgrading Insulation of Roofs and Floors during Retrofit (GLH21) 5 credits Unit
  • 007: Reducing the thermal transmittance of Walls and Windows (GLH 21) 3 credits
  • Unit 008: Upgrading the Mechanical and Electrical Services during Retrofit. (GLH 19) 3 credits
  • Unit 009: Introducing renewable energy systems and storage to Retrofit Projects (GLH 19) 3 credits Unit
  • 010: Retrofit Quality Assurance and Post Retrofit Monitoring (GLH 05) 3 credits

 

City & Guilds Level 2 in Retrofitting
 

Learners will be introduced to the scope and opportunities offered within the construction industry for those working on retrofit. Learners will also develop knowledge of the requirements of the roles involved in retrofit. This will include specific responsibilities in retrofit. Learners will develop their knowledge of retrofit in practice (PAS 2035) and how these impacts on the installation and preparation for a property retrofit system. 

Learning Outcomes: 

  • LO1: Understand safe working practices for the retrofit industry
  • LO2: Understand the benefits of PAS 2035 when working in the retrofit industry
  • LO3: Understand the impact of PAS 2035 in the retrofit industry

 

Level 4 NVQ Diploma in Construction Site Supervision
 

From 31 December 2020 all Construction Skills Register (CSR) skilled cards or above that were originally issued based on an occupational assessment (Grandfather rights) and Industry Accreditation will expire on 31 December 2024. Once these cards expire (on 31 December 2024) candidates will then have to be registered on or achieved an NVQ Level 3 or 4 qualification (applicable to the card level they are applying for e.g. NVQ Level 3 for gold craft card) based on their occupation. 

This qualification is aimed at those who have responsibility for organising and supervising work on Construction sites including the planning and controlling of work methods, allocation of equipment, personnel and materials, and ensuring work is completed to the required standard and ensuring communication is clear and effective. Click here for more info

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