Grant backs Jersey Green Skills Academy for heat pump training
UK – Jersey Electricity and Highlands College have opened a new Green Skills Academy in St Saviour as part of a nearly £3 million programme to train 36 low-carbon heating technicians over five years.
The purpose-built facility at Highlands College will provide practical training in technologies including air-source and ground-source heat pumps, cylinders and solar thermal systems. Grant UK is among the manufacturers supporting the academy and has supplied heat pump equipment for training and assessment.
Two-year low-carbon heating apprenticeship
The academy has been developed by Jersey Electricity and Highlands College in partnership with local trade businesses to address a shortage of low-carbon heating skills on the island.
Three cohorts of 12 apprentices are planned, with further groups due to join in 2027 and 2028. The accelerated Level 3 Diploma in Low Carbon Heating Technician can be completed over two years by learners with relevant previous plumbing, electrical or mechanical services qualifications.
Apprentices will combine college-based study with practical experience working alongside local trade partners.
Jersey Electricity said demand for air-source heat pumps on the island increased by 500% during 2025, adding to the need for more trained installers.
This workshop is a state-of-the-art facility that stands comparison with the very best training centres in Europe
Chris Ambler, chief executive, Jersey Electricity
Grant equipment installed
Grant UK has supplied two Aerona 290 air-source heat pumps with Aerona Smart Controllers, system volumisers and Quick Recovery 2 single- and twin-coil heat pump cylinders.
The equipment will be used for practical training and assessment at the academy.
Grant already has an established relationship with Highlands College, where its Training Academy has delivered OFTEC oil training and assessments.
Phil Stanley, training manager at Grant UK, said the initiative aligned with the company’s focus on developing the next generation of renewable heating installers.
The first cohort is due to complete the programme in summer 2028.
