Hosted by NOCN Group in partnership with FE Week and Educationcape, this series offered practical insights into the technologies, challenges, and training pathways shaping the UK’s journey to Net Zero.

Whether you missed the live sessions or want to revisit the highlights, this recap provides a summary of each episode — from foundational insulation and solar technology to heat pumps and the broader retrofit landscape. Watch the full episodes below and discover how NOCN Group and its partners are preparing the workforce for the green economy of the future.

Episode 1: Introduction to Insulation

In the first episode, we kicked off the conversation around retrofit by focusing on one of the most foundational—and often overlooked—areas: insulation.

Led by sector experts Nick Miles (EWI Pro) and Nigel Donoghue (Insulation Assurance Authority), the session explored how high-quality insulation is essential to improving energy efficiency, meeting net zero targets, and futureproofing our homes.

The speakers unpacked how insulation fits within the fabric-first approach, reducing energy loss before more expensive technologies like heat pumps or solar panels are considered. They also highlighted the legacy of substandard work from poor historical practices, emphasizing the urgent need to upskill the workforce to avoid repeating past mistakes.

Key discussion points included:

• The importance of installing insulation correctly to prevent moisture and ventilation issues

• How improved standards and quality assurance are raising industry reputation

• Opportunities to retrain and upskill existing workers through funded green skills pathways

Throughout the session, both panellists championed certified training and qualifications as vital tools for professionalising the sector and building public trust in retrofit.

Watch the full episode below to learn how insulation lays the foundation for sustainable construction and why the right skills, products, and standards are key to getting it right the first time.

---

Episode 2: Introduction to Solar PV, EV, and Battery Storage

In episode two, we explored solar photovoltaic (PV) technology, electric vehicles (EVs), and battery storage — key components in the transition to clean, green energy.

Graham Hasting-Evans, Chief Executive of NOCN Group, opened with an overview of the evolving policy landscape, including government funding for green skills and the urgent need to upskill the existing workforce to meet net zero goals. He also introduced the Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP), a collaborative initiative uniting employers, training providers, and local authorities to accelerate green skills development across the UK and beyond.

Tom Winter from HS Energy Group then took us through the practical side, explaining how solar PV works, the role of battery storage, and EV charging infrastructure.

Highlights included:

• The science behind solar PV and how it converts sunlight into electricity

• How battery storage captures energy for use when the sun isn’t shining

• Installation processes and practical considerations for solar, battery, and EV systems

• Government incentives and future outlook for these green technologies

Together, these insights provided a comprehensive introduction to the technologies powering the green revolution in homes and businesses.

Watch the full episode below to learn how solar PV, battery storage, and EV charging are shaping the clean energy future and the skills needed to make it happen.

---

Episode 3: Introduction to Heat Pumps

In the third episode, Kristopher Dean, Product Development Manager at NOCN Group, alongside Steve Muscroft (NOCN Group) and Liz Howard (Quantum Group), provided an insightful overview of critical skills gaps within the low-carbon heating sector, focusing on heat pumps — a key technology driving the transition to net zero.

Kristopher outlined the main workforce challenges identified through extensive industry consultation:

• Design and commissioning: Professionals skilled in integrating smart controls to maximise heat pump efficiency

• Installation and integration: Installers requiring more experience with low temperature heating, system balancing, and retrofitting heat pumps

• Maintenance and diagnostics: Limited expertise in fault finding and servicing, especially for hybrid heat pump systems

• Customer engagement: Ensuring homeowners are confident operating new heating systems

To address these needs, NOCN Group offers qualifications designed to upskill the workforce, including:

• Level 2 Award and Certificate in Fundamental Principles of Low Carbon Heating

• Level 3 Diploma in Low Carbon Heating Technician (aligned with apprenticeship standards)

• Specialist short courses on air source heat pump installation, maintenance, and system design

• Endpoint assessment services supporting apprenticeships in this evolving sector

Liz Howard from Quantum Group discussed their expertise in smart controls and energy management, highlighting how their partnership with NOCN keeps training aligned with the latest technology.

Watch the full episode below to explore how NOCN Group is preparing the workforce with vital skills to support the growing heat pump market and advance the UK’s net zero heating ambitions.

---

Episode 4: Introduction to Retrofit

In the final episode, we explored the urgent and exciting journey to net zero retrofit.

Led by NOCN Group in partnership with FE Week and Educationcape, the session unpacked the critical importance of decarbonising homes, upgrading the UK’s ageing housing stock, and upskilling the workforce to meet rising green job demand.

Graham Hasting-Evans opened with government ambitions around energy efficiency, housing, and sustainability, making the case for retrofit as both a climate enabler and a major employment opportunity requiring skilled workers equipped with the right training.

The session showcased NOCN Group's expanding retrofit qualifications, including:

• Level 3 Award in Domestic Retrofit Advice (enhanced with introductory units for learners aged 16+)

• Level 4 Award in Domestic Retrofit Assessment

• Level 5 Diploma in Retrofit Coordination and Risk Management

Funding routes supporting delivery include the Adult Education Budget (AEB), Skills Bootcamps, and the Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF).

Paul Brown from Swifix demonstrated how innovative fixings and fittings can dramatically improve energy performance, especially when installing external wall insulation.

Watch the full episode below to hear sector insights and learn how NOCN Group enables organisations to lead in retrofit, green skills, and sustainable construction.

Get involved with green skills 

The transition to a greener, more sustainable UK depends on a skilled and confident workforce and NOCN Group is proud to be at the forefront of preparing that workforce for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Whether you’re an employer, training provider, or individual looking to develop your knowledge and qualifications in retrofit, low carbon heating, or renewable energy technologies, we have the expertise and accredited courses to support your journey.

Explore our Green Skills qualifications, unlock funding opportunities, and join a network committed to building the UK’s green economy.

Visit www.nocn.org.uk/products/green-skills to learn more and take the first step towards a sustainable future.