A new study commissioned by the South West Net Zero Hub will identify gaps in the current provision of net-zero skills and training in order to shape future policy and delivery.

Gemserv will be producing a South West wide report, and will also have funding from the Heart of the South West LEP to produce an area-specific report for Devon, Somerset, Plymouth and Torbay.

The four key themes of the study are retrofit and heat pumps, solar PV, offshore wind, and low-carbon transport.

Update 30.06.23:

The report has found that, at current installation rates for heat pumps and insulation, local authorities in the South West will fail to meet targets set to heat homes more sustainably and reduce emissions.

Skills shortages were identified in a range of roles including retrofit assessors and coordinators, installers of heat pumps, plumbers, heating engineers and technicians, as well as key gaps in the provision of qualifications for insulation and double-glazing.