Barnsley College support UK’s low-carbon construction transition with launch of Clean Energy Training Centre
Barnsley College has officially launched its Clean Energy Training Centre, a major new facility designed to prepare the construction sector for the UK’s transition to renewable and low-carbon energy.
The launch comes as the Government accelerates its drive towards net zero, backed by major national investment in green technologies and clean energy industries.
Recent funding announcements from the Department for Energy, Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), include a £15 billion investment as part of the ‘Warm Homes Plan’, providing green home upgrades and clean technology for UK households. This investment is expected to generate significant demand for skilled workers across construction, retrofit and renewable energy.
The Clean Energy Training Centre aims to help meet this demand by providing hands-on, industry-standard training, with courses in key areas including:
- Renewable energy systems
- Low-carbon heating
- Solar PV installation
- Energy-efficient retrofit
- Sustainable building methods
- Green construction technologies
Supporting the Construction Sector’s Green Transition
The centre will support upskilling and reskilling for existing construction workers, helping businesses adapt to evolving environmental regulations and the growing demand for low-carbon building solutions.
The Clean Energy Training Centre will provide opportunities for:
- Construction professionals seeking to upskill in low-carbon technologies
- Career changers and adult students retraining for clean energy roles
- Apprentices and young people entering sustainable construction careers
- Employers facing skills shortages in renewable and retrofit sectors
By aligning training with industry needs, the centre ensures students develop practical, job-ready skills that meet current and future demand across the construction and energy sectors.
The launch represents a major investment in South Yorkshire’s green skills infrastructure, strengthening the region’s role in the UK’s clean energy transition while supporting economic growth, workforce development and long-term sustainability.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Skills for the Future
The launch reflects Barnsley College’s commitment to sustainability, innovation and preparing students for emerging industries.
Jonathan Inglesfield, Head of Construction at Barnsley College, said:
“This Centre represents a major step forward in preparing our students and local businesses for the future of construction and clean energy. By investing in cutting-edge facilities and employer-focused training, we are helping to build the skilled workforce needed to support the UK’s low-carbon transition.”
For more information about courses, training opportunities and partnerships linked to the Clean Energy Training Centre, visit www.barnsley.ac.uk/clean-energy or contact us on info@barnsley.ac.uk or 01226 216 123.
