Training provider appointed to further boost solar safety

Future Energy Skills (FES) has been appointed to develop a comprehensive training package for Licensed Electrical Inspectors, aimed at making the solar industry even safer.

Published:
Tuesday, 13 July 2021 at 4:02 am
Training provider LEI

FES will develop a comprehensive suite of industry-validated learning and assessment materials for Licensed Electrical Inspectors (LEIs).

This new training program will encourage more qualified electricians to become LEIs and will build skills and capability for solar as well as new energy technologies for existing inspectors.

This initiative supports more jobs in a growing industry and continues to improve standards.

The customised training resources will develop, upskill and support the Licenced Electrical Inspector industry and benefit retailers, installers and customers by reducing inspection wait times and increasing the quality of safety inspections.

Solar Victoria is also working with industry to explore other opportunities to encourage more electricians to qualify as Licensed Electrical Inspectors.

The LEI training is part of an $11 million Victorian Government investment in making the solar revolution a safe one.

Solar Victoria has partnered with the Department of Education and Training, with support from WorkSafe and Energy Safe Victoria (ESV), to deliver solar-specific training that ensures all industry workers have the knowledge and skills they need to do their jobs safely and to a high-standard.

As Victoria’s independent energy safety regulator, ESV commissioned a review of the performance of LEIs last year. The review found that extra training was required to maintain standards among LEIs. As part of its response to the review, ESV will make continuing professional development for LEIs (and all electrical workers) from 2023. This will be mandatory for licence renewal.

Solar Victoria makes no apology for maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality across the Solar Homes Program, which is why specific solar training is mandated for all installers.

Twelve Registered Training Organisations across Victoria are delivering the training, which is recognised by industry as eligible for continuous professional development.

Since its launch in 2018, the Solar Homes Program has provided more than $270 million in rebates to help Victorian households install solar systems, making solar accessible, driving down energy prices and helping to tackle climate change.

More information including eligibility criteria and authorised retailers can be found at solar.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Solar Victoria CEO Stan Krpan

“These training resources, developed in partnership with industry and peak bodies are helping build skills and capability for Victoria’s growing residential solar industry across the whole supply chain.”

“Supporting professional development in the Licensed Electrical Inspector industry will help improve the timeliness of independent electrical inspections, and households who have installed solar to gain their Certificate of Electrical Safety sooner.”

“The government’s investment will not only create new jobs in the industry but continue to lift standards and quality by investing in skills and qualifications for the increasingly technical nature of solar and new energy technologies.”

Quotes attributable to Energy Safe Victoria Commission Chairperson Marnie Williams

“LEIs are a fundamental part of the energy safety regime. Their work provides assurance that electrical installations are safe and meet industry standards."

“As Victoria’s independent energy safety regulator, it is ESV’s responsibility to ensure the governance and oversight of LEIs meets industry and community expectations.”

 

Updated