Delivered by technical director Ian Edgeworth, the intensive five-day course featured a hybrid mix of classroom theory learning complemented with a unique hands-on training experience at the state-of-the-art facility in Dalkeith on the outskirts of Edinburgh.

Local electrical engineers were the first people on the landmark course, working on a complete solar installation on a ground-breaking eco home built within the academy complex. 

“We have designed and constructed a training facility unlike any in the UK and it was great to see the first group pass the solar PV and battery course with flying colours,” said Ian.

“It is one of the most exciting courses that I have had the fortune to develop along with our team – for example we have a bespoke lighting system to simulate sunlight and shade, giving attendees the chance to test and monitor performance in various seasonal conditions.

“New courses and partnerships are in the pipeline as we move into the new year. The vision for the academy has always been the promotion of carbon neutral technologies allied with courses based on traditional fuel and energy being utilised in a more sustainable, conscientious manner. 

“The portfolio of courses aims to inspire the next generation of engineers to deliver net zero targets.”

The solar PV and battery course is certified by qualification body LCL Awards, whose managing director Mark Krull visited during its delivery, and is Level 3 qualification recognised by the Micro Generation Certification Scheme (MCS).

Darryl Coll, owner of D. C. Electrical Services Edinburgh, sat the course himself and will now be putting his men through the next one in January.

“The way our trade is moving into renewable energy, it made complete sense to enlist on the course,” he said. “It will give us a foundational knowledge of solar PV and battery storage which is the start of the journey to being MCS certified and I’m delighted to now be on that pathway. The delivery of the course was excellent and very engaging, which was a pleasant surprise to be honest and I’d encourage other company owners in the trade to do it as well.”

Another big thumbs-up came from John Hall, managing director of HQ Electrical & Construction Services.

“We’re going to be moving into solar and storage on new-build sites and this kind of course was perfect from that perspective,” said John. “Our guy found it really useful having the eco house to work on while learning what to do. The real-life hands-on scenario was far superior to learning from a textbook and he thought it was one of the best courses he has been on.”