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A Green Future With Renewable Energy Careers

How would you like to get into an industry that is both cutting-edge and future-proof? Get trained for work in the renewables industry and you'll have the skills to do it. People are increasingly looking at green energy systems to reduce their CO2 emissions - within twelve months from now you could be a certified installer of energy efficient equipment. The world can't continue to consume oil and gas at current levels. Our homes cost too much to run and keep warm, and they give off too much CO2. Consumers are becoming more educated on alternative methods and resources for powering their homes.

In Britain grants of up to 80 per cent are being made available (and in some instances 100 per cent) to cover the labour costs of certain energy efficient improvements. Moves such as these mean the demand for appropriately certified fitters and installers continues to increase. So be sure to get details of the 'green' elements in any plumber or electrician training course you're considering. Any experienced electricians or plumbers can take short courses in renewable energy solutions.

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Defining Green Technology...

Green technology uses the earth's natural resources and converts them into usable energy. We can generate additional and efficient power supplies by utilising the sun, the tides and the wind. Wind and water power had commercial uses many years ago, but now we can use the power of the sun for domestic purposes as well. Trades people with green credentials can capitalise on this.

Solar Energy Systems

Domestic hot water pipes can be connected to solar water heaters to provide free heat to the system. We have a plentiful range of systems to choose from today, as this technology has been developing for many years. They are used in conjunction with conventional boilers or heating systems, and can provide most of the hot water for a UK family throughout the summer months. Year round, something in the region of 50 per cent of the hot water could be met by solar energy. The solar energy 'collectors' come as either lightweight evacuated tubes or slightly more robust flat panels. As might be expected, a south-facing roof is the ideal location for these collectors.

Another use for solar power is to create electricity. For this, we need photovoltaic or PV panels. Again, PV panels are designed to be attached to a roof or wall that is preferably south facing. As sunlight shines onto the panels an electric field is created that goes to an inverter inside the roof. This solar PV electricity can be used for lighting and for various appliances.

Solar electricity is renewable energy that doesn't release any carbon dioxide or other harmful pollutants. Home owners will reduce their bills and their carbon footprint. Any solar electricity that isn't used up can either be stored in batteries for a cloudy day, or sold back to the National Grid.

During 2010, the government stepped in to increase the amount of money energy companies have to pay for this recycled electricity. Some European governments have fixed 'feed-in tariffs' for many years, which has led to an increase in the number of systems purchased, and a reduction in the amount they cost.

Geo-thermal Ground Source Heat

Geothermal heat is the term used for the ground source heat that is stored naturally under the ground. If land is plentiful the surface ground collector method is used to get the heat out. If it isn't, the borehole collector method is used. Either method requires burying a few hundred metres of plastic piping filled with an eco-friendly liquid. The solution flows through the pipes and collects heat which is taken to the heat pump. Warm air or water is then pumped around a home to supplement existing heating systems. Heat pumps need a small amount of electricity to run them, but the savings by far outweigh the costs.

Progressive Evolution

The right 'green energy' course will cover everything you need to pursue a worthwhile career in domestic renewable energy. You'll be taken through the basics of electrical and plumbing skills in the domestic market, before moving on to specific green technologies. Most courses will also deal with what government assistance is available and how people apply for it. Most of the domestic interest in the renewables market is focused on solar thermal solutions and heat pumps. It makes commercial sense to concentrate on these. Essentially, courses are there to equip you for work - so all parts of your training should lead to industry recognised qualifications. Additional options on certain courses could cover biomass, or grey and rainwater harvesting.

Working With Future Trends...

By law, each house in Britain now needs an Energy Performance Certificate before it can be sold. This tells potential buyers how much energy is being consumed and where improvements could be made.

In some instances, changes can produce huge savings. The government will give out grants when certain systems are installed by properly qualified installers. That just scratches the surface though. In ten years' time the British government aims to be on target for 15 percent of the nation's energy coming from renewables. The time is quickly coming when everyone will be looking for alternative energy solutions for their homes. Demand for skilled installers is about to soar!