A major green skills initiative launched in summer 2024 is already making a lasting impact across the South Coast, and SERT is proud to have played a leading role in its success.
In partnership with Portsmouth City Council, Havant Borough Council, and City of Portsmouth College, SERT helped deliver fully funded and subsidised green skills courses aimed at supporting the transition to Net Zero and helping local tradespeople prepare for the future of work.
Thanks to investment from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this sustainable skills project enabled self-employed tradespeople and small businesses to gain renewable energy qualifications and grow their services in a fast-evolving sector.
Delivering Real Skills for Real Jobs
In just a few months, the Green Skills upskilling project saw 180 green energy qualifications achieved by learners in the local area. SERT was directly responsible for upskilling 66 residents through 97 accredited sustainable energy courses.
From solar panel installation training to EV charging qualifications, every course was developed with input from industry experts to reflect the real-world needs of the UK’s green economy.
“The Green Skills funding helped our business through the EV charger course,” said Brad Howick from TVR Electrical in Havant. “It was extremely beneficial to have more engineers qualified to install EV chargers, giving us more flexibility with our scheduling.”
High-Quality Sustainable Training in the South
Training was delivered at SERT’s industry-leading training centre in Whiteley, as well as at City of Portsmouth College. Each site offers modern, purpose-built facilities with access to the latest tools and technologies used across the green energy sector.
Popular renewable training courses included:
These green energy training programmes are now in high demand, especially as UK businesses prepare to meet sustainability targets and address the growing need for qualified engineers in low-carbon technologies.
Collaboration Driving Positive Change
This project reflects the importance of strong collaboration between public bodies and workforce training providers to support regional development and climate goals.
“These initiatives are creating new career opportunities, driving renewable energy adoption, and supporting our collective journey towards net zero, making a real impact in our communities,” said Mark Edwards, CEO of SERT Group.
“It is fantastic to see the impact of collaboration in action across our region via our Green Skills upskilling project,” added Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council. “As we focus on a more sustainable future, investing in our workforce is essential.”
“We are delighted to have secured a grant from the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund,” said Cllr. Phil Munday, Leader of Havant Borough Council. “By developing the skills and knowledge of those who live or work locally, it will benefit us in making commercial buildings and homes in the borough more energy-efficient in the future.”
Building a Future-Ready, Skilled Workforce
As industries move rapidly towards low-carbon technologies, green jobs and training have never been more vital. This project provided free or subsidised training for electricians, heating engineers, and those working in construction who want to gain new, in-demand skills.
“Sustainability is always high on our agenda,” said Katy Quinn, Principal and CEO of City of Portsmouth College. “It was fantastic to collaborate closely with Portsmouth City Council, Havant Borough Council, and SERT to deliver this training, enhancing critical skills and making a difference for the people who live and work in our region.”
Whether you are a self-employed engineer, a business owner looking to expand into sustainable services, or simply seeking career development in the growing green jobs sector, this programme has proven the value of local training for a national challenge.
Looking Ahead
This project is just the beginning. With further funding opportunities and growing demand for green energy skills in the UK, SERT remains committed to delivering affordable, accessible training that supports both the workforce and the environment.
Interested in green energy training or funded trades upskilling near you?
Contact SERT today to learn more about our upcoming sustainable energy courses and funded programmes.