The energy and utilities sector is working together to shape the UK’s low-carbon future, and employers are at the heart of this transformation. By collaborating to define two new Apprenticeship Standards, the sector is ensuring that the next generation of technicians have the skills needed to deliver on ambitious environmental and infrastructure goals.
With over 312,000 people are needed to join the workforce by 2030 from heat networks powering environmental ambitions to water systems safeguarding public health, the need for high-quality training and assessment has never been greater.
We’re proud to support this collective effort by being the first to offer End-point Assessment (EPA) for two newly agreed standards, helping employers create the capabilities needed to deliver on sector targets.
Heat Network Maintenance Technician
Heat networks are becoming a vital part of the UK’s low-carbon energy transition, delivering efficient heating to homes and businesses. To keep these systems running safely and reliably, the energy industry collaborated to create the Level 3 Heat Network Maintenance Technician apprenticeship, a programme designed to build the skills our future workforce needs.
As an industry-first initiative with us as the exclusive End-point Assessment Organisation (EPAO) for this standard, we are proud to play a role in shaping the future and strengthening the skills strategy for energy and utilities.
This 36-month apprenticeship gives learners hands-on experience in fault diagnosis, system maintenance, and customer service, with the option to specialise in Residential or Distribution Systems.
With 35,000 new jobs expected in the UK’s Heat Network Industry by 2050 (Source: Heat Networks Industry Council), this standard offers a practical route into green careers for school leavers and career changers alike.
Water Industry Asset Maintenance Technician
The water industry is one of the UK’s most essential sectors, operating every day to keep homes and communities supplied with clean water and safe wastewater treatment. To support this vital work, collaboration from the water industry created the Level 3 Water Industry Asset Maintenance Technician apprenticeship. Employers included Severn Trent, Wessex Water, Thames Water, Yorkshire Water, Anglian Water, Southern Water, United Utilities, Southeast Water, and Severn Trent Water.
Another industry-first initiative with us as the exclusive EPAO for this standard, this standard reflects the latest industry needs with water specific content and replaces the outgoing Utilities Engineering Technician standard.
Over 48 months, apprentices will gain practical experience across mechanical, electrical, and instrumentation pathways. These skills are critical for maintaining infrastructure that protects public health and the environment, offering long-term career stability in a sector that never stops.
Find out more about Energy & Environment Award’s End-point Assessment offering.
