Dates: From September 2026
Duration: 2 Day Course
Cost: £500
As the UK continues to expand the use of renewable technologies, solar thermal hot water systems are becoming an increasingly important part of sustainable domestic heating solutions. Qualified installers with the skills to design, install, commission, and maintain solar thermal systems are in growing demand as homeowners and businesses look to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions.
This Solar Thermal Hot Water course at the Bucks Green Energy Skills Hub is designed for experienced plumbing and heating professionals who want to develop specialist renewable energy skills and progress into the growing low-carbon heating sector.
Successful candidates will gain recognised industry certification and will be able to use the qualification to apply for membership of an MCS Installer Scheme.
- Course Overview
Solar thermal technology plays an important role in renewable hot water generation and low-carbon energy systems.
This comprehensive two-day course provides learners with the knowledge and practical understanding required to safely design, install, commission and maintain solar thermal hot water systems in line with current legislation and industry standards.
The programme has been developed to meet the requirements of the National Occupational Standard Assessment Programme for individuals working within renewable technologies.
- Learning Outcomes
Successful candidates will:
- Gain an understanding of solar thermal hot water systems and renewable energy principles
- Learn current legislation and safety requirements
- Understand solar collectors, storage systems, and system components
- Develop knowledge of system design and installation types
- Learn commissioning and maintenance procedures
- Understand system controls and operational requirements
- Gain practical knowledge of pre-installation planning and best practice
- Gain certification supporting progression into renewable heating technologies
- Be eligible to apply for an MCS Installer Scheme
- Entry Requirements
Learners must hold one of the following:
- NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Plumbing or equivalent
- OR NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Heating & Ventilating (Domestic Installation) or equivalent
- OR NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Heating & Ventilating (Industrial & Commercial Installation) or equivalent
- OR NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Oil-Fired Technical Services or equivalent
- OR NVQ/SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Gas Installation and Maintenance or equivalent
Additionally, learners must hold or complete training in:
- Unvented Domestic Hot Water Storage Systems (UVHW)
- Water Regulations (WR)
- Energy Efficiency for Domestic Heating
- Assessment
You will be assessed through a multiple choice paper exam and practical assessment.
- Certification
NICEIC Certificate of Competence will be issued to successful learners and is valid for five years.
- FAQs
Who is this course designed for?
This course is aimed at qualified plumbing and heating engineers who want to develop renewable energy installation skills in solar thermal hot water systems.
Can I resit the exam?
Yes, and resits are free.
Is this course MCS recongnsied?
Yes, successful candidates will be able to use the qualification to apply to join an MCS Installer Scheme.
