Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has welcomed Skills England’s ambition to strengthen the UK’s workforce for the low-carbon transition, including in areas such as EV charge points and solar PV. However, it is warning that fast-tracked apprenticeship units must not come at the expense of electrical safety, competence and industry-recognised standards.

Keith Sanderson, Head of Education and Skills at ECA, said: 

“Skills England’s recent announcement of Apprentice Units, designed to accelerate low carbon installation skills, raises serious safety concerns. 

“While ECA welcomes the Government’s focus on skills to install EV Charge Points, Solar PV and Battery Storage, these technologies depend on electrical competence. 

“It is disappointing that Government has chosen to fund courses in a safety critical sector which do not meet industry standards. Training routes to upskill and achieve industry recognised qualifications already exist. These routes are a cheaper and more efficient way to upskill qualified electricians at pace.”

Visit the Electrical Careers website for more information about the industry recognised qualifications and routes available across the UK.