Renewables Innovation Network

Renewables Innovation Network - Narec teams up with South Tyneside College to train wind technicians going offshore

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Wed, 8 Feb 2012 09:36:46 GMT

A team of engineers from Dale Power Solutions have completed an intensive 4 day marine safety training programme, at Narec and South Tyneside College, to enable them to work safely when working on offshore wind sites.

Trainees undertook 2 days of Working at Height and Rescue Training on Narec’s 27m high Training Tower in Blyth and spent a further 2 days at the South Tyneside College - Marine Safety Training Centre.

At Narec, instructors from Total Access Ltd trained technicians on access methods when climbing a turbine using the vertical ladder and fixed vertical fall arrest system. The technicians also received techniques for self-recovery and casualty recovery.

Steven Caseley, Commercial Director, Narec said: “Working at height and vessel transfer is an essential yet hazardous process when conducting vital operations and maintenance offshore. Our Training Tower is an open access facility and we are pleased to be working with South Tyneside College to support the training of technicians embarking on a career in the wind industry.”

The Working at Height and Rescue Training was part of a further 2 day Marine Safety Training – Vessel Transit and Transfer training course delivered at South Tyneside College - Marine Safety Training Centre and accredited by industry body, RenewableUK. This utilised the environmental pool which is able to simulate sea conditions likely to be experienced by technicians working offshore.

Graham Johnson, Head of School – Marine Safety Training Centre said: “The partnership with Narec is a perfect fit; between us we are able to offer a complete solution to meet the turbine safety training requirements of the offshore wind industry.”

Kevin Thompson, Service Operations Manager, Dale Power Solutions said: “The training facilities and bespoke training package available as a result of the partnership between Narec and South Tyneside College has enabled us to provide the quality training we need to equip our engineers for working safely in the offshore renewables environment.”

For further information please contact Ian Finch, Business Development Manager 07525 236046 or email training@narec.co.uk

Renewables Innovation Network - Marine Renewables Infrastructure Network MaRINET.

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 10:19:37 GMT

MARINET (Marine Renewables Infrastructure Network), is a €9 million EU funded FP7 project which aims to accelerate the development of marine renewable energy (wave, tidal and offshore wind) by coordinating marine research and development at all scales (small models through to prototype scales from laboratory through to open sea tests) and allowing researchers and developers access to specialist marine renewable energy centres across Europe.

What Narec will offer

Narec will provide 49 weeks of access to its testing facilities for marine prototype testing, tidal turbine drive train (3MW capacity) and electrical grid integration. The project offers significant contribution towards the costs of your test (up to €17,276 per week plus up to €1,000 travel and expenses allowance for each user group).

Narec facilities available for use under the project include:

Timeframe and access

There will be at least four calls for applications over the next four years (April 2011-March 2015).
Call 1 - The first call is open now until 29th Feb 2012 with access to facilities commencing May 2012.
Call 2 – The second call will open in July 2012 and close on the 26th September 2012.

Further information visit: http://www.fp7-marinet.eu/ or download the MARINET case study here.

Renewables Innovation Network - Willis Teams with Narec Capital to Boost Renewable Energy Revolution

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 16:51:01 GMT

A new strategic alliance between Willis Group Holdings (NYSE: WSH), the global insurance broker, and clean energy financier Narec Capital will unlock fresh opportunities for firms in the renewable energy market to develop and scale up technologies that generate low carbon power from the air, sea and sun.

By combining dedicated finance and insurance capacity, Narec Capital and Willis are able to give would-be investors and developers of renewable technologies the confidence they need to test and deploy new clean energy solutions that are expected to provide an increasing share of the world’s power in years to come.

While the clean energy revolution poses significant social benefits and business opportunities, it also presents significant risks and challenges to developers, financiers and insurers.

Narec Capital and Willis have come together to tackle these challenges and mitigate the risks of investment in renewable technologies by sharing their complementary insurance and sectoral expertise. Where Narec Capital opens up finance opportunities by identifying investors with an appetite for early-stage renewable development and de-risking those opportunities, Willis provides an unrivalled array of insurance services and products for the renewable energy sector. The development and deployment of affordable clean energy technology and infrastructure is an area where the insurance industry especially can make a substantial contribution to the transition to a low carbon, energy-stable society.

Together, Narec Capital and Willis will combine the strengths of their respective networks in the areas of risk engineering, risk management consultancy, and development and distribution of specialist risk mitigation products for the renewable energy industry. The companies will also rely on their respective academic institution and technology partners to accelerate the research and commercialisation of renewable power and infrastructure. Willis supports more than 50 universities and public science institutions through the Willis Research Network, which has grown to become the world’s largest collaboration between science, academia, and the insurance and finance sectors. Narec Capital is working closely with leading renewable energy technology and innovation institutions across Europe building on its joint venture with the National Renewable Energy Centre (Narec).

Commenting on the partnership with Willis, Jerry Biggs, Chief Executive of Narec Capital, said: "The strengths of Willis strongly complement those of Narec Capital and our partners. The breadth of our rapidly growing financial risk mitigation capability, headed by the very experienced team of Michael Bullock and Bill Lloyd, in conjunction with our technical due diligence activities, is already helping us to bring much-needed additional financial capacity into the renewable sector and will reduce the overall cost of capital for our investors. With our team working closely with Willis, we are certain that we will be able to accelerate this market development even more rapidly."

Michael Buckle, Renewable Energy Practice Leader at Willis, added: "We are delighted to work with Narec Capital to bring together and harness a unique proposition to accelerate and mitigate the risks of renewable energy development. The agreement supports our companies' shared objective to drive positive change in the clean energy market by reducing and mitigating the risks linked to renewable development. Alongside Narec Capital, we share the same vision and the fusion of skills within each organisation shows outstanding and unprecedented capability in the sector."

Industry Background

Adding more renewables to Britain’s energy mix is a cornerstone of the UK government’s plan to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions levels generated from dirtier, fossil fuel sources and transition to a low carbon economy. Within the next decade, Britain has pledged to deliver 20 per cent of the nation’s energy from renewable sources, representing more than a three-fold increase on current capacity levels. The estimated investment needed to achieve this target is £79 bn from now through 2020.

The UK and many countries across the world are also turning towards renewable power in the face of mounting global energy demands and concerns over security of energy supplies--concerns which have only sharpened against the backdrop of recent political and social unrest in the world’s top oil and gas producing regions. According to the International Energy Agency’s most recent World Energy Outlook report, global energy demand is set to grow by one third between 2010 and 2035. The report urged more investment in low-carbon technologies, warning that, “Without a bold change of policy direction, the world will lock itself into an insecure, inefficient and high-carbon energy system”.

About Willis

Willis Group Holdings plc is a leading global insurance broker. Through its subsidiaries, Willis develops and delivers professional insurance, reinsurance, and risk management, financial and human resource consulting and actuarial services to corporations, public entities and institutions around the world. Willis has more than 400 offices in nearly 120 countries, with a global team of approximately 17,000 employees serving clients in virtually every part of the world. Additional information on Willis may be found at www.willis.com.

About Narec Capital

Narec Capital is the UK’s renewable energy accelerator. The company is a uniquely positioned financial services company with a primary focus on reducing financial risk and providing capital in order to accelerate the deployment and reduce the cost per megawatt hour (MWh) of renewable energy technologies and projects. Narec Capital achieves this through its four pillars of operation specialist consultancy, risk mitigation, capital markets, incubation & commercialisation. The company is a joint venture between Narec (The National Renewable Energy Centre) and Ashberg Ltd (a fully regulated financial services entity).

About National Renewable Energy Centre (Narec)

Established in 2003, Narec is dedicated to advancing the development, demonstration and deployment of offshore renewable energy technologies - offshore renewable wind, wave and tidal energy generation. To date, it has invested over £150 million of UK government, private sector and European Union funding to create a unique portfolio of independent facilities in Blyth, Northumberland, England.

Renewables Innovation Network - Free microrenewable training for unemployed skilled and semi-skilled technicians

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 9 Jan 2012 16:12:52 GMT

Narec and Newcastle Warm Zone are working together to deliver training in microrenewable technologies to unemployed skilled/semi-skilled technicians who are interested in upskilling and gaining knowledge of the industry.

Applicants will be assessed on an individual basis and must be unemployed or have received a statutory redundancy notice and live within the Newcastle area.

Training available ranges from:

Renewable Energy Awareness
Introduction to Renewable Technologies
Solar Photovoltaic System Installation and Maintenance
Solar Photovoltaic First Fix Installation
Solar Thermal Hot Water System Installation and Maintenance
Heat Pump Installation and Maintenance

If you are interested please contact Sara Ibbetson at Narec on 01670 543006 for more information.

Training will be delivered at Narec’s training facilities in Blyth and Cramlington. Transport will be provided.

This project is funded by Newcastle Science City and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Renewables Innovation Network - Narec included in the Telegraph 1000 Britain's Brightest Businesses

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:07:22 GMT

Narec has been included in the Telegraph 1000: Britain's Brightest Businesses. The list was compiled by NESTA, the innovation agency, and business information specialist Dun & Bradstreet (D&B).

Click here to read the full article.

Renewables Innovation Network - PV Installer Training Supports Expansion for GB Renewable Energy Ltd

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 11:17:41 GMT

Narec has delivered its first practical courses for the roof installation of solar PV and solar thermal panels to newly recruited technicians from GB Renewable Energy Ltd, part of the GB Group.

The training took place at a new solar panel installer training facility at GB Renewable Energy’s premises in Cramlington, Northumberland and equips roofers and builders with the necessary skills to correctly mount and install solar panels ready for electrical connection.

The new facility has been built by GB Building Solutions Ltd, the construction division of the GB Group, and the courses delivered at the facility by Narec will support its expansion into the renewables sector.

Narec will now be able to take installers through their full training and assist them in becoming MCS certified.

Martin Smout, Chairman and Chief Executive, The GB Group said: "GB Renewable Energy is expanding rapidly to support the EU target of 20% of energy being generated from renewable sources by 2020. The recent award of the photovoltaic scheme by Northumberland County Council has enabled GB to open this training centre, focussing on local employment and training".

Allen Jones, Distributed Energy General Manager, Narec, said: “Narec has so far this year trained over 70 technicians to install solar PV and solar thermal systems. Our courses are helping organisations to benefit from the growth in the low carbon and renewable energy sector and we are delighted to be able to support GB in delivering their expanding skill training requirements. Their new facility complements our existing classroom and practical electrical installation training facilities in Blyth, Northumberland".

Narec’s new Autumn/Winter training prospectus is now available, for further information email training@narec.co.uk or visit www.renewables-innovation.co.uk/training

Renewables Innovation Network - Providing a catalyst for R&D collaborations between UK and Sweden in offshore renewables

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Thu, 26 May 2011 09:41:08 GMT

As part of a three day programme, Narec (National Renewable Energy Centre) in conjunction with UK Trade & Investment/British Embassy Sweden and partners hosted a technology and innovation workshop to explore collaborative R&D opportunities for accelerating deployment and demonstration of offshore renewable energy devices.

Delegates from the UK and Sweden from industry and academia identified a number of potential projects aimed at de-risking technology and improving survivability of devices involved in the offshore renewables industry.

Swedish delegates including Vattenfall, SP, Elforsk, Hexicon and Swedish Wind Power Technology Centre were also treated to an evening cruise along the River Tyne. The cruise was an opportunity for UK and Swedish organisations interested in the mutual business opportunities offered by the nascent offshore renewables industry to establish contacts, promote partnerships and business opportunities.

Despite recent high winds and torrential rain, the delegates were treated to a stunning sunset as they sailed past some of the region’s industrial heritage as well as new locations set to be involved in offshore wind R3 activity.

Renewables Innovation Network - Training Centre Launch - Presentations

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:39:29 GMT

Sir Ian Wrigglesworth Deputy Chairman of the Government's Regional Growth Fund Advisory Panel officially opened the Training Centre in Blyth yesterday. The launch event was attended by local authorities representatives, colleges and business leaders who were given the opportunity to look round the centre, once a traditional domestic terraced property. The centre boasts an impressive range of renewable and energy saving technologies allowing prospective trainees to gain practical experience of working with these systems.

The presentations from the launch event are attached below:

Narec overview and future plans - Steve Caseley, Commercial Director, Narec

Regional Growth Fund - Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, Deputy Chairman of the Government's Regional Growth Fund Advisory Panel

The National Skills Academy – Environmental Technologies - Michael Bretherick, Principal & Chief Executive, Hartlepool College of Further Education

The Green Deal - David Connor, Regional Director, Warm Zones CIC

For more information on future training courses please click here to view the current prospectus.

Renewables Innovation Network - Sir Ian Wrigglesworth officially opens Narec’s Training Centre

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Wed, 13 Apr 2011 13:07:31 GMT

Today, Narec’s Training Centre in Blyth, Northumberland was officially opened by Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, Deputy Chairman of the Government's Regional Growth Fund Advisory Panel. The event was also attended by local authorities, colleges and business leaders.

Andrew Mill, CEO, Narec said: “The Training Centre is a great addition to our facilities, it is the final piece in the jigsaw enabling Narec to deliver the skills required to install, operate and maintain renewable energy systems.

“The microgeneration courses offered by Narec will help local authorities, organisations, businesses, communities and individuals to understand how best to reduce their carbon emissions and generate additional revenue as a result of the FiT scheme.”

Sir Ian Wrigglesworth said: “We are very fortunate to have Narec based in the North East. As a national institution it attracts business to the region by its very presence here. Clearly the offshore renewable energy sector is of vital interest to the UK and will be of enormous benefit to the whole of the East Coast. The Centre I am opening today adds to the offering that Narec provides and will strengthen the institution for the benefit of us all. Strengthening our skills base is one of the most important things we can do and I congratulate Narec on having the foresight and commitment to invest in our future in this way.”

The new centre, once a traditional domestic terraced property, has been fitted with a range of renewable and energy saving technologies, allowing prospective trainees to gain hands-on, practical experience of working with various low carbon and renewable energy systems.

Renewables Innovation Network - Narec helps Newcastle City Council to up skill and optimise the low carbon opportunity

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Wed, 2 Mar 2011 10:44:15 GMT

Narec helps Newcastle City Council to up skill and optimise the low carbon opportunity

Narec, the National Renewable Energy Centre, has provided a first phase of training to Newcastle City Council employees to enable the council to install renewable technologies and systems on their buildings.

Newcastle City Council was the first to utilise Narec’s new Training Centre in Blyth, with nine electricians from the Council’s City Works division completing a three day solar photovoltaic panel installer course. This training forms part of the ongoing energy master planning work being undertaken by Narec for Newcastle City Council, which will formulate a sustainable energy action plan and a citywide climate change strategy to deliver regeneration across the city.

Narec established its new training centre to address the skills gap for technicians to install, operate and maintain renewable energy systems. The new centre offers a range of courses for the microrenewables and distributed energy sectors including; solar thermal, air and ground source heat pumps and solar PV installer courses.

Allen Jones, Project Director, Narec said: “The feed-in tariff (FiT) scheme, introduced by the UK government last year to incentivise small scale, low carbon electricity generation can play an important contribution to regeneration in helping local authorities to generate additional revenue, reduce carbon and increase electricity generated from renewables. The courses Narec has designed are helping local authorities, organisations, businesses, communities and individuals to take advantage of the opportunity.”

David Hall, Head of Service - City Build, Newcastle City Council said: “Narec’s knowledge and expertise in delivering energy master planning and training for the built environment is helping the Council to drive forward the delivery of Low Carbon Energy Schemes. This coordinates activity across the council, stakeholders and city, helping us to achieve the national and European carbon reduction targets as part of the 2010 EU Covenant of Mayors Agreement.”

The Narec Training Centre will be officially launched on the 13th April 2011 by Sir Ian Wrigglesworth, Deputy Chairman of the Government's Regional Growth Fund Advisory Panel. A range of new training packages such as ‘Energy Champions for the Workplace’ designed to increase employees’ awareness of energy consumption and efficiencies in the workplace have also been developed to complement Narec’s training capabilities and meet employers’ needs.

Renewables Innovation Network - Narec plays key role in testing Tekmar's special cable system

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:58:38 GMT

Subsea engineering specialist Tekmar who used Narec's facility in Blyth to test Tekmar Energy’s TEKLINK® Cable Protection System is experiencing rapid growth following the successful launch of the patented offshore wind power technology.

Click here to view Narec's case study relating to Tekmar's Cable Protection System.

Click here to view the news article in full.

Renewables Innovation Network - Narec launches toolkit to optimise sustainable developments

capitan@el-roboto.co.uk — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 16:09:53 GMT

In response to recent changes in UK planning regulations the National Renewable Energy Centre, Narec, has launched the Microrenewables Toolkit. The Toolkit is designed to advise developers and planners within local authorities on the optimum low carbon solutions to be used for sustainable building design and build.

The Microrenewables Toolkit is made up of two parts; Carbon Mixer® North East v2.0 software and the Sustainability Guidance for North East Buildings document.

The Carbon Mixer® North East v2.0, a software package, developed in association with Bobby Gilbert & Associates, shows the financial, energy, and carbon benefits of installing a range of microrenewable and low carbon technologies across a range of building types. This tool will enable users to quickly assess the energy credentials of developments using a consistent methodology, assist in the planning process when faced with high levels of legislation and encourage discussions between architects, planners and developers.

The Sustainability Guidance for North East Buildings document explains the policy requirements, and gives a full understanding of the current legislation relevant to North East England. It also provides guidance on the suitability of technologies in different situations, enabling users to make informed decisions about renewable energy installations.

It is hoped that the Microrenewables Toolkit will assist planners with regard to sustainability, and ensure the North East becomes an exemplar low carbon economy.

Narec is currently engaged in a number of strategic partnerships with local authorities to inform their energy master planning requirements and help deliver regeneration in accordance with the climate change and political agenda. The Microrenewables Toolkit builds on Narec’s ongoing work with these authorities.

The Toolkit, funded by the Association of North East Councils and One North East is available free of charge to all local authorities within North East England and other selected not-for-profit organisations. For further information contact Tom Bradley, email toolkit@narec.co.uk or visit www.microrenewables-toolkit.info

Renewables Innovation Network - Green investment divides ministers

capitan@el-roboto.co.uk — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 12:15:18 GMT

Details of one of the government’s flagship green initiatives are likely to be left out of Wednesday’s comprehensive spending review, as ministers cannot agree on the policy.

The green investment bank was championed by George Osborne, chancellor, while in opposition. He set up a commission to report on how such a bank would operate.

However, the proposed bank has been mired in disagreements over how it should be funded and the powers it should have.

Via Financial Times

Renewables Innovation Network - renewableUK Wave & Tidal 2012

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 15:38:41 GMT

Narec will be attending renewableUK Wave & Tidal 2012 at the EICC Edinburgh on the 15th of March. We will be exhibiting at stand No.30 and Jamie Grimwade - Marine Technology Specialist will be presenting on 'Proving marine energy systems before deployment at sea' from 10.15 - 11.30 on the day.

Renewables Innovation Network - EWEA 2012

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:04:06 GMT

Narec will be exhibiting at EWEA 2012 in Copenhagen on the 16 - 19th April. Come and see us in the main hall at stand C1-A47.

Renewables Innovation Network - EAL Heat Pump Installation

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Wed, 8 Feb 2012 09:55:28 GMT

EAL Heat Pump Installation

Course Details
Duration	3 Days
Accreditation	Narec
Cost	£495 + Vat
Entry Requirements	Plumbers with relevant certification and experience
Course Type	Classroom/Practical
Assessment	Written and Practical Assessment
Location	Blyth or other venues available on request

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006..

With fuel prices rocketing, rising CO2 levels and energy supply becoming ever more critical, one technology that is sure to make a positive impact in this country is Heat Pumps. Whether ground source or air source, heat pumps are set to become a major contributor to reducing the amount of CO2 emitted by the UK when producing heat in the domestic and commercial sector.Most major heating manufacturers are now either actively selling or about to bring heat pumps to the market.

The purpose of this installer training is to give candidates an entry level qualification to build upon current heating or plumbing trade knowledge in order to extend their work scope to include the installation of heat pumps.

Course Outline

Whilst this course is aimed at practicing heating or plumbing operatives, it may also be of benefit to building service engineers, designers, structural engineers, energy solution consultants and architects. The full qualification will only apply to candidates who meet the requirements of the awarding body’s accreditation scheme.

The course will cover the following topics:

Market insight and background
Regulations and Guidance
Principles of heat pump operation
Collector types
Heat distribution
Pre-installation requirements and design guidance
Insulation materials and methods
Filling, flushing and testing
Setting to work and commissioning
Servicing and fault finding

Please note that this course does not include bore hole drilling or significant ground work, use of heavy plant and equipment or handling of refrigerants. Units covered in this course are pre-charged sealed units and do not require the refrigerant circuits to be broken.

Assessment

The final assessment for the course is in the form of an on-line assessment. There is also a practical assessment associated with this certification.

Candidate Entry Requirements

It will be essential that the candidate will be able to demonstrate their competencies as a qualified heating or plumbing operative and hold an NVQ 3 or equivalent in Plumbing and heating and/or experience. Experience of basic electrical practice would also be a desirable. A basic knowledge of the WRAS Water (fittings) Regulations is also desirable.

Renewables Innovation Network - EAL Renewable Energy Awareness

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

EAL Renewable Energy Awareness

Course Details
Duration	2 Days
Accreditation	EAL Certified
Cost	£295 + Vat
Entry Requirements	None
Course Type	Classroom delivery with demonstrations and a site tour
Assessment	On-line Assessment
Location	Blyth
Course Date:	22nd February

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

This EAL accredited renewable energy awareness course is designed to offer candidates a broad understanding of the renewable industry. Covering technologies such as Solar Thermal, Heat Pumps, Biomass, Solar Photovoltaics, Micro-CHP, Micro-Wind and Micro-Hydro as well as looking at water conservation techniques such as rainwater harvesting and greywater re-use.

Each technology is explored giving delegates a broad base of knowledge and understanding. The course is aimed at individuals wishing to expand their knowledge of renewable technology including new and emerging technologies. Narec’s position and status within the market allows them to offer the most up to date and current information including details of the most recent developments.

Target Audience

Renewables Innovation Network - Logic Heat Pump Installation

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 7 Feb 2012 16:23:29 GMT

Logic Heat Pump Installation

Course Details
Duration	3 Days
Accreditation	Narec
Cost	£495 + Vat
Entry Requirements	Plumbers with relevant certification and experience
Course Type	Classroom/Practical
Assessment	Written and Practical Assessment
Location	Blyth or other venues available on request
Course Date:	5th Sptember

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

Course Outline

The course will cover the following topics:

Market insight and background
Regulations and Guidance
Principles of heat pump operation
Collector types
Heat distribution
Pre-installation requirements and design guidance
Insulation materials and methods
Filling, flushing and testing
Setting to work and commissioning
Servicing and fault finding

Assessment

The final assessment for the course is in the form of an on-line assessment. There is also a practical assessment associated with this certification.

Candidate Entry Requirements

Renewables Innovation Network - Large Scale Solar Thermal System Design

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 7 Feb 2012 15:54:36 GMT

Large Scale Solar Thermal System Design

Course Details
Duration	3 Days
Accreditation	Narec
Cost	£795 + Vat
Entry Requirements	None
Course Type	Classroom delivery with demonstrations and a tour
Assessment	Tutor assessed
Location	Blyth
Course Dates:	14th May 10th October

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

This course has been specifically designed by Narec’s technical specialists to offer delegates wishing to design or be involved with the design of large scale solar thermal systems. This three day intensive training programme covers all elements of a large solar thermal system from pipe and pump sizing, hot water load assessment through to energy monitoring and display options and the RHI.

Course Outline

This intensive three day course is designed to offer delegates the tools that they need to design large solar thermal systems for a variety of buildings or to evaluate the designs of others with confidence. Small group sizes encourage lively discussions around technical issues including specific project queries relating to delegate installations.

A wide range of topics covered include:

The solar resource and roof mounting methods
Solar primary components, technology and typical layout
Temperature and pressure ratings, solar collector types
Pump and pipework dimensioning
Collector field design
Heat load estimation and simulation
Storage types
Regulations and Standards
Legionella risk assessment and control strategies
Introduction to fluids and thermodynamics
Control, display, heat meter and remote monitoring technology
System commissioning
Fault finding diagnostics and maintenance issues
System handover and documentation
Simulation Tools
Financial appraisal, DCF analysis and RHI

Assessment

There is no formal assessment attached to this programme however the course is certified by Narec (Subject to the presentation of professional body membership information) and can be used for CPD purposes with most professional bodies.

Target Audience

This course is aimed at, but not exclusively to companies or individuals wishing to design large scale solar thermal systems.

Renewables Innovation Network - EAL Solar Thermal Hot Water System Maintenance

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 7 Feb 2012 15:53:20 GMT

EAL Solar Thermal Hot Water System Maintenance

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	EAL
Cost	£149* + Vat (or £195 + VAT)
Entry Requirements	Plumbers with relevant certification ad experience
Course Type	Practical and classroom based
Assessment	On Line and Practical
Location	Blyth or other venues available on request
Course Date:	14th December

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

*£149 applies to those who have previously attended the Narec EAL Solar PV Course, otherwise costs are £195+Vat

In addition to the popular Solar Thermal System Installer course outlined in the previous page, an additional unit is available to those who intend on offering the maintenance of such systems as a further service of their business. The Solar Thermal Hot Water System Installation and Maintenance qualification covers the following topics over a one day training course:

Necessary documentation for carrying out the routine inspection and service of such systems.
Planning routine maintenance and inspection
Visual inspection requirements
Cleaning of components
Checking of System Water Content
Functional Tests
Industry reporting of routine service and maintenance work
Fault Diagnosis and repair
This unit is assessed through an on-line exam.

Entry Requirements are the same as the Solar PV System Installation Course.

Candidate Entry Requirements

Candidates must have previously attended the EAL solar PV course to attend this training.

Renewables Innovation Network - EAL - Solar Thermal Hot Water System Installation

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 7 Feb 2012 15:47:10 GMT

EAL Solar Thermal Hot Water System Installation

Course Details
Duration	4 Days
Accreditation	EAL
Cost	£625 + Vat
Entry Requirements	Plumbers with relevant certification ad experience
Course Type	Practical and classroom based
Assessment	On Line and Practical
Location	Blyth or other venues available on request
Course Date	10th December

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

Solar thermal installations have seen a marked increase in the past year and with the introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), these numbers are set to increase dramatically.

This installer course covers the predominant North European fluid filled, indirect heating systems. The course does not cover all possible variants of this subject and in many cases the support and guidance of the manufacturer would be required upon fitting the equipment.

The course covers the following main types of system collector types:

Fully filled sealed systems
Drain back systems
Flat plate collector
Evacuated tube collector
Direct flow evacuated tube collector

Course Outline

The course will cover the following topics:

Market insight and background
Regulations and Standards
Solar heated storage types (storage cylinders)
Solar primary system types
Basic system design and integration
External and Internal site survey, Installation methods and materials
Filling and commissioning

Note this course does not include roof work in detail but does cover the legislative requirements and working at height requirements. See our additional 1 day course to accommodate the required skills for mounting the panel.

Assessment

The final assessment for the course is in the form of an on-line assessment. There is also a practical assessment associated with this certification.

Candidate Entry Requirements

It is essential that the candidate is experienced in the installation of domestic hot and cold water systems and will hold a G3 certificate in Unvented Hot Water Systems. It is also essential that the trainee holds one recognised competency in a conventional fuels i.e. gas, oil, or solid fuel: or for those in the plumbing field with and NVQ 2 or equivalent and/or experience. Experience in basic electrical practice would also be desirable. A basic knowledge of the water (fittings) regulations is also desirable.

Renewables Innovation Network - DC Commissioning Course

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 16:33:09 GMT

DC Commissioning Course

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	Narec
Cost	£195 + VAT
Entry Requirements	Electricians and Electrical Contractors with relevant experience
Course Type	Classroom/Practical
Assessment	Tutor Assessed
Location	Blyth or other relevant venues available on request
Course Dates:	4thApril 19th October

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

This course is designed to provide engineers and other construction professionals with the correct DC knowledge and experience to commission grid connected PV systems in line with MCS requirements. The course is aimed at companies who are registered for MCS, but intend to sub-contract AC electrical installation, testing and certification; consequently this is not covered by this course.

This course covers the following topics:

Solar resource and calculation
MCS Overview
DC Electricity, Cabling and functional testing
Array Earthing and DC test reporting
Installation checklist
Inverters and Export meters
Grid connection according to G83
Customer handover documents

Candidate Entry Requirements

Although no strict entry requirements exist, candidates must have a sound construction background and underpinning knowledge from the PV Design and Application course, or the PV First Fix Installation course and site experience.

Renewables Innovation Network - Narec Solar Photovoltaic System Maintenance

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 16:29:37 GMT

Solar Photovoltaic System Maintenance

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	Narec
Cost	£195 + VAT
Entry Requirements	Delegates with an electical background
Course Type	Classroom/Practical
Assessment	Tutor Assessed
Location	Blyth or other relevant venues available on request
Course Dates:	21st May 14th September

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

As photovoltaics become a more common site around the country, system maintenance has become an essential part in the growing market of the installation market. In addition to the popular Solar Photovoltaic Installer course, Narec is proud to offer this one days course designed to offer practicing electricians and those individuals with a knowledge of electrical systems the additional training to enable them to safely and correctly maintain photovoltaic systems. The Solar Photovoltaic System Maintenance course covers the following topics:

PV system overview and system terminology
System components and configuration

Maintenance considerations including:

Minimising shading
Cleaning
Electrical and mechanical inspection
Fault finding and troubleshooting
Planning routine maintenance and inspection
Performance assessment and system monitoring

Candidate Entry Requirements

Although there are no strict entry criteria to this course, it would be advantageous to have electrical knowledge.

Renewables Innovation Network - EAL Solar Photovoltaic System Maintenance

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 16:11:21 GMT

EAL Solar Photovoltaic System Maintenance

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	EAL
Cost	£149 + VAT* (or £195 + VAT)
Entry Requirements	Electricians and Electrical Contractors with relevant experience
Course Type	Classroom/Practical
Assessment	On-line and Practical
Location	Blyth or other relevant venues available on request
Course Date:	7th December

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

*£149 applies to those who have previously attended the Narec EAL Solar PV Course, otherwise costs are £195+Vat

In addition to the popular Solar Photovoltaic Installer course outlined in the previous page, an additional option is available to those who intend on offering the maintenance of such systems as a further service of their business. The Solar Photovoltaic System Maintenance unit covers the following topics over a further days training:

Necessary documentation for carrying out the routine inspection and service of such systems
Planning routine maintenance and inspection
Visual inspection
Cleaning of components
Functional testing
Performance testing
Control and component adjustment
Fault Diagnosis and repair
This unit is assessed through an on-line exam.

Candidate Entry Requirements

Candidates must have previously attended the EAL solar PV course to attend this training.

Renewables Innovation Network - EAL Solar Photovoltaic System Installation

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 16:07:21 GMT

EAL Solar Photovoltaic System Installation

Course Details
Duration	4 Days
Accreditation	EAL
Cost	£625 + VAT
Entry Requirements	Electricians and Electrical Contractors with relevant experience
Course Type	Classroom/Practical
Assessment	Written and Practical Assessment
Location	Blyth or other relevant venues available on request
Course Date:	3rd December

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

The purpose of this installer training is to give candidates a qualification which builds upon current electrical knowledge in order to extend their scope to include the installation of solar photovoltaics. This course covers grid connected installations up to 5kWp output and includes a unique tour of Narec’s world renowned photovoltaic technology centre where solar cells are designed and tested.

Course Outline

Whilst this course is aimed at practicing electricians, it may also be of benefit to building service engineers, electrical designers, structural engineers, energy solution consultants and architects. The full certificate will only apply to candidates who meet the entry requirements of the awarding body. Delegates must have a working knowledge of domestic electrical installations and be able to design, install, inspect, test, and issue documentation for a single phase circuit.

The course will cover the following topics:

The fundamental aspects of photovoltaics
Safety requirements relating to the installation of electrical installations
Basic electrical components and test instruments used
Simple AC & DC electrical circuit arrangements
Electrical regulations (17th edition) and legal requirements of installations
Installing, commissioning and testing a fully working system
Backgrounds into market and grant funding routes
Regulations and standards
Health and safety considerations
Cell types and benefits
External and internal site survey requirements

Assessment

The final assessment for the course is in the form of a written assessment. There is also a practical assessment associated with this certification.

Candidate Entry Requirements

It is essential that the candidate has experience in the design & installation of domestic single phase circuits and issuing the appropriate documentation (electrical installation certificate, schedule of inspections & schedule of test results). It is also essential that the candidate holds a qualification that demonstrates their knowledge and understanding of BS7671:2008 17th Edition Wiring Regulations and has a sound knowledge and understanding of the Building Regulations.

Typically eligible candidates will be those who hold an Electrotechnical NVQ Level 3 or a Full Scope Part P qualification and 17th Edition Wiring Regulations and have at least 2 years’ experience.

Renewables Innovation Network - Logic Solar Photovoltaic System Installation

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 15:36:23 GMT

Lgic Solar Photovoltaic System Installation

Course Details
Duration	3 Days
Accreditation	Logic
Cost	£495 + VAT
Entry Requirements	Electricians and Electrical Contractors with relevant experience
Course Type	Classroom/Practical
Assessment	Written and Practical Assessment
Location	Blyth or other relevant venues available on request
Course Date:	26th March

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

Course Outline

The course will cover the following topics:

The fundamental aspects of photovoltaics
Safety requirements relating to the installation of electrical installations
Basic electrical components and test instruments used
Simple AC & DC electrical circuit arrangements
Electrical regulations (17th edition) and legal requirements of installations
Installing, commissioning and testing a fully working system
Backgrounds into market and grant funding routes
Regulations and standards
Health and safety considerations
Cell types and benefits
External and internal site survey requirements

Assessment

The final assessment for the course is in the form of a written assessment. There is also a practical assessment associated with this certification.

Candidate Entry Requirements

Typically eligible candidates will be those who hold an Electrotechnical NVQ Level 3 or a Full Scope Part P qualification and 17th Edition Wiring Regulations and have at least 2 years’ experience.

Renewables Innovation Network - Solar Photovoltaic System First Fix Installer Course

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 15:28:01 GMT

Solar Photovoltaic System First Fix Installer Course

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	Narec Certified
Cost	£195 + VAT
Entry Requirements	Must be comfortable working at heights
Course Type	Practical and classroom based
Assessment	Tutor Assessed
Location	Cramlington
Course Dates:	7th March 20th April 5th October

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006..

This one day course is aimed at those who involved with the mechanical fitting of solar panel arrays on domestic and small scale commercial properties and offers delegates, through both classroom and practical activities exposure to the panels, associated bracketry and the necessary tools used in carrying out an installation.

The course offers delegates an insight into the full array installation whilst giving delegates an opportunity to install an array on a scale roof installation from a scaffold.

Although delegates will be given full PPE protection, delegates are asked to provide their own safety footwear.

Topics covered in this one day course are:

Basic safety and PPE Introduction
Introduction to the technology and technology history
Solar module types
DC Electricity and DC cabling
Basic functional testing
Mechanical Installation of system
Solar resource and basic yield calculation

Renewables Innovation Network - Renewable Technologies in the Built Environment

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 15:17:07 GMT

Introduction to Renewable Technologies

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	Narec Certified
Cost	£195 + VAT
Entry Requirements	None
Course Type	Classroom delivery with some demonstrations and a tour
Assessment	Attendance certificate
Location	Blyth, or employees premises
Course Dates	26th April 21st September

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

An ever growing interest in renewable technologies in the home and small commercial businesses means that demand for introductory information and worked examples of real local system installations has increased tenfold.

This basic introduction to renewable technologies in the build environment is designed to give delegates an industry overview and understanding of renewable technologies. Technologies covered in the programme include photovoltaic arrays, solar thermal, Heat Pumps, micro-wind, biomass and wood fuels. The course also invests time in offering delegates the opportunity to find out more about financial incentives made available through government grants to support the installation of microrenewables on domestic and small scale commercial facilities.

Subjects covered include:

Introduction to energy and government policy
Low carbon heating: Biomass
The Solar source
Solar thermal domestic hot water
Solar photovoltaics
Financial Incentives

Renewables Innovation Network - Introduction to Renewable Technologies

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 6 Feb 2012 14:58:30 GMT

Introduction to Renewable Technologies

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	Narec Certified
Cost	£195 + VAT
Entry Requirements	None
Course Type	Classroom delivery with some demonstrations and a tour
Assessment	Attendance certificate
Location	Blyth, or employees premises
Date of course:	27th April 30th November

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

This basic introduction to renewable technologies course is designed to give delegates an industry overview and understanding of the wider term ‘renewable technologies’. Technologies include photovoltaic arrays, solar thermal, wind, biomass and wood fuels as well as an introduction to other technologies. The course also invests time in offering delegates the opportunity to find out more about financial incentives made available through government grants to support the installation of microrenewables on domestic and small scale commercial facilities.

Subjects covered include:

Introduction to energy and government policy
Low carbon heating: Biomass
The Solar source
Solar thermal domestic hot water
Solar photovoltaics
Wind Energy
The Feed-in Tariff and Renewable Heat Incentive
Other Technologies: Water Power and Anaerobic Digestions etc

Target Audience

This course is aimed at, but not exclusively to companies or individuals interested in developing a greater understanding of the financial benefits to be gained from installing small scale renewable technologies that generate electricity or heat. Potential installers of these technologies (including electricians, heating engineers, plumbers, roofing contractors) as well as businesses who are considering deploying the technology in their own premises will also benefit from attending. The general public may also be interested in attending to find out more about what these technologies mean for their region.

Renewables Innovation Network - Photovoltaic System Design and Application Course

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 10:49:45 GMT

Photovoltaic System Design and Applications

Course Details
Duration	3 Days
Accreditation	Narec
Cost	£895 + VAT
Entry Requirements	None
Course Type	Lecture with interaction and some practical
Assessment	None
Location	Blyth, or other on request
Course Dates:	29th Feb 13th June 7th November

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

This intensive course is aimed at providing system specifiers, planners, architects and other building professionals a detailed and current knowledge of photovoltaic system installations on domestic and small scale commercial properties.

This course has been specifically designed by technical specialists in the photovoltaic field at Narec. It is designed to assist in the knowledge transfer of such professionals to meet the specialist needs of an ever growing industry. Further to this and taking into consideration the release of financial incentive schemes (such as the Feed-in tariff and the renewable heat incentive) and the cross cutting issues of the Green Deal, there has never been a better time to prepare for the opportunities that lie ahead.

Course Outline

This intensive three day course is designed to offer delegates an opportunity to gain an in depth understanding of solar photovoltaic installations whilst furthering their knowledge on many of the planning and installation issues associated with such systems. Small group sizes encourage discussions around technical issues including specific project queries relating to delegate installations.

A wide range of topics covered include:

PV History and background
System technology, components and manufacturing
System positioning and design Issues
Electrical Installation
Inverter sizing and selection
String design and cable sizing
Shading analysis techniques
Modelling and simulation software
Roof Mounting
Site Issues and Practicalities
System efficiencies and losses and yield (including SBEM and SAP)
Feed in Tariff
Cell Manufacture (Including a tour of Narec’s world renowned photovoltaic technology centre)
Access during and after to Narec's leading industry specialists

Assessment

Candidate Entry Requirements

There are no entry requirements for this course however due to the technical and detailed nature of the programme, Narec would suggest that this course is not suitable for those who wish to learn how to install PC systems. This course is aimed at system designers, specifiers, architects, planners and other building professionals.

Renewables Innovation Network - Enrolment Form

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:15:00 GMT

The Enrolment Form for the courses is available to download here. Please indicate the Course Date and Course Title you require on your completed Form.

Renewables Innovation Network - Solar Thermal System First Fix Installer Course

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:46:55 GMT

Solar Thermal System First Fix Installer Course

Course Details
Duration	1 Day
Accreditation	Narec
Cost	£195 + Vat
Entry Requirements	Must be comfortable working at heights
Course Type	Practical and classroom based
Assessment	Tutor Assessed
Location	Cramlington
Course Date:	28thSeptember

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

This one day course is aimed at those who involved with the mechanical fitting of solar thermal collectors on domestic and small scale commercial properties and offers delegates, through both classroom and practical activities exposure to the collectors, associated bracketry and necessary tools used in carrying out an installation.

The course offers delegates an insight into the full array installation whilst giving delegates an opportunity to install an array on a scale roof installation from a scaffold.

Although delegates will be given full PPE protection, delegates are asked to provide their own safety footwear. Topics covered in this one day course are:

Basic safety and PPE Introduction
Introduction to the technology and technology history
Collector types
Basic connection
Basic functional testing
Mechanical Installation of system
Solar resource and basic yield calculation

Renewables Innovation Network - Logic Solar Thermal Hot Water System Installation

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:42:10 GMT

Logic Solar Thermal Hot Water System Installation

Course Details
Duration	3 Days
Accreditation	Logic
Cost	£495 + Vat
Entry Requirements	Plumbers with relevant certification ad experience
Course Type	Practical and classroom based
Assessment	Written exam and Practical
Location	Blyth or other venues available on request
Course Dates:	21st March 24th October

For further information please contact Jill Morrison on 01670 543006.

Solar thermal installations have seen a marked increase in the past year and with the introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), these numbers are set to increase dramatically.

The course covers the following main types of system collector types:

Fully filled sealed systems
Drain back systems
Flat plate collector
Evacuated tube collector
Direct flow evacuated tube collector

Course Outline

The course will cover the following topics:

Market insight and background
Regulations and Standards
Solar heated storage types (storage cylinders)
Solar primary system types
Basic system design and integration
External and Internal site survey, Installation methods and materials
Filling and commissioning

Assessment

The final assessment for the course is in the form of a written assessment. There is also a practical assessment associated with this certification.

Candidate Entry Requirements

Renewables Innovation Network - Course Prospectus 2012

sheena.mcgeorge@narec.co.uk — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 22:02:27 GMT

Training Courses

Narec’s practical and industry led training courses are designed to support the skills and knowledge requirements for the new and renewable energy sector. Courses include:

Accredited installer courses, including - solar thermal, air and ground source heat pumps and solar PV installer courses
Health and safety training
Market insight seminars
Bespoke packages

Courses have been developed to meet the requirements of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), an independent scheme that certifies microgeneration products and installers in accordance with consistent standards.

Click here to view our Training Course and Seminar Prospectus 2012