Training program to boost region’s energy-efficient home construction

THE Victorian government has launched a new initiative to train construction workers in building energy-efficient homes.

The Renewable Homes Construction program, announced by Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio, offers free training to builders, electricians, and plumbers.

“We’re training our builders, electricians and plumbers so they can build more energy efficient homes – helping Victorians slash their emissions and cut their power bills,” Minister D’Ambrosio said.

The training will cover new standards set by the National Construction Code 2022, which aims to make homes more comfortable, accessible, and cost-effective to heat and cool.

Solar Victoria is partnering with Master Builders Victoria and the Housing Industry Association to deliver Home Efficiency Construction Roadshows across Melbourne and regional areas including Geelong, Bendigo, Ballarat, Shepparton, and Mildura.

These roadshows will teach passive house principles, solar design, avoiding condensation, addressing air tightness, energy-efficient appliances, and building techniques.

Online training through the Net Zero Homes Skills Training program is also available, covering residential energy efficiency, thermal performance, and net zero energy design.

The Efficient Home Design and Construction Training will launch later this year, offering short modules on energy-efficient home design and construction.

With growing demand for rooftop solar and heat pump hot water systems, the government is providing free training for 400 electricians through the Upskilling for Electricians program.

This initiative will help electricians and fourth-year apprentices become accredited designers and installers of solar PV and battery storage systems, saving participants between $2,000 and $4,500 in course fees.

Another round of free training for plumbers and fourth-year plumbing apprentices to design and install energy-efficient heat pumps and solar hot water systems will also be available later this year.

For more information on these free training courses, visit solar.vic.gov.au/renewable-homes-construction-training