Monday 29 June 2009

Light shines on solar courses

Adelaide Advertiser
Tuesday 23/6/2009 Page: 47

SKILLS shortages in the green energy sector are being addressed thanks to companies pitching in with training, says Solar Shop Australia's Andrew Nicholls. Mr Nicholls, 42, is a teacher in the Business Council for Sustainable Energy-accredited solar courses at the TAFE SA Renewable Energy Centre.

The students are taught how to install solar panels and maintain the systems. "These are specialised skills and will be useful in making sure we don't have any skill shortage issues going forward," Mr Nicholls said. TAFE SA has seen a high demand for its solar-accredited courses and waiting lists are in place to accommodate this, said TAFE SA's educational manager Gerry Paay.

"We are slowly but surely building our renewable-energy offerings and a national training program out this year will see us offer courses from the certificate to advanced diploma levels," Mr Paay said. The links with industry have been a crucial factor. "We need to be in constant contact with industry for the latest trends and updates to ensure updated industry knowledge," Mr Paay said.

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