Thousands of green jobs to be created under Government home heating plan

The Government has unveiled a package of proposals aimed at creating up to 18,000 green jobs and expanding training for the next generation of clean energy workers.

Unveiled as part of the Government’s ‘Plan for Change’, the initiative includes a consultation to expand the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, while launching new funding and skills programmes to grow the workforce needed for a low-carbon future.

Under the plans, the Warm Homes Skills Programme and an extended Heat Training Grant will support thousands of new workers to qualify as installers of heat pumps, solar panels, insulation, and heat networks.

The move is a response to both climate targets and growing demand for skilled labour in the green economy.

Energy Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh said: “Our Warm Homes Plan will mean lower bills and warmer homes for millions of families – helping drive better living standards as part of the Plan for Change.   

“Following a record-breaking month for applications to our Boiler Upgrade Scheme, we are now proposing to give working families more choice and flexibility to pick the low-carbon upgrades that work best for them.”

In addition to training, the Government is investing £4.6m in Copeland, Northern Ireland, to expand domestic manufacturing of components for heat pumps.

Backed by further private investment, the project is expected to drive regional growth and secure jobs in clean energy supply chains.