BESA training supports heat network regime

UK: The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has launched the first official training course supporting the UK government’s Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS). 

HNTAS will be phased in over time once policy proposals are consulted on and finalised. This is to ensure the sector has sufficient time to understand and take action to comply with the scheme.

BESA Academy is the government appointed ‘shadow training provider’ for the new regulations and has established a training pathway, which is designed to upskill the industry in preparation for the new regulatory regime.

The training was developed by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the content designed by BESA Academy which is delivering the course via its online learning platform.

Introduction to Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme is the first in a planned series of courses to support the new regulations and is available free of charge thanks to the government’s heat training grant scheme. Individuals and organisations are being invited to register now on the BESA Academy’s online learning platform.

“The launch of this training is a major step forward for industry readiness,” said BESA’s director of competence and compliance Jill Nicholls. “HNTAS will become a crucial framework for compliance and performance, and BESA is delighted to be able to deliver the training that will make sure our industry is ready.”

Mandatory

HNTAS will introduce mandatory minimum technical standards for all GB heat networks designed to improve performance, energy efficiency, reliability, and consumer protection. It also plays a key role in supporting the government’s decarbonisation of heat policy ambitions under the Heat Network Transformation Programme.

The scheme has also been designed to complement the competence requirements established by the Building Safety Act and the Building Regulations, particularly where communal and district systems are part of multi-occupancy developments. 

The course introduces HNTAS and explains the rationale behind the scheme. It also covers the structure and elements of heat networks, roles and responsibilities under the new regulations, and how compliance will be assessed and certified. The course focuses on the context of HNTAS and its current state of development.

Although some proposals are liable to change following the Government’s consultation later this year, BESA says that this course is being made available now due to industry demand. Once proposals have been consulted on, some changes may need to be made to the Introduction to HNTAS course to ensure course content aligns with the finalised policy position. Where required, updated courses highlighting where content has changed will be made available to attendees.

The training is funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and is aimed at developers, consultants, contractors, operators, and local authorities, as well as anyone involved in the planning, design, or operation of heat networks. 

“This is a valuable opportunity for individuals and businesses to get a head start by strengthening their knowledge, future-proofing operations, and accessing the commercial opportunities the newly regulated market will create.” said Nicholls. 

The government has also agreed a second round of funding for BESA Academy’s Heat Networks 1: Installation and Maintenance Course, which is a comprehensive blend of online theory and hands-on practical training and is designed to meet the rising demand for skilled heat network professionals. 

The course was developed in partnership with the Manufacturers of Equipment for Heat Networks Association (MEHNA) and the Thermal Insulation Contractors’ Association (TICA) to help engineers “upskill and gain cutting-edge knowledge and skills”. It is being delivered at Worcester Bosch and BAXI training centres.

BESA Academy also provides a Heat Networks Foundation Course covering design, operation and management of heat networks, providing the trainee with an overall awareness. It is aimed at people already working in the building services industry, either technical or non-technical, who are interested in improving their understanding of the technology.

This introductory course covers basic principles and key components of a heat network including diversified loads, heat interface units (HIUs), water treatment and the basics of thermal insulation for secondary systems.

For more information about all the heat network training courses visit the BESA Academy learning platform.