New Academy launches to upskill electricians across Antrim & Newtownabbey for green energy future

(L-R) Tina McMullan, Business and Improvement Advisor ETTNI, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick and Jessica Smyth, Business Development Project Officer LMP

Fully funded programme offers local electrical professionals qualifications in solar PV, battery storage, and EV charging installation

Fifteen qualified electricians from the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough are set to benefit from a groundbreaking new training initiative designed to prepare the local workforce for Northern Ireland’s transition to renewable energy.

The Cleantech Upskilling Electrical Training Academy, launched by Antrim and Newtownabbey Labour Market Partnership (LMP) in collaboration with ETTNI, offers fully funded training in cutting-edge low-carbon technologies, addressing both the region’s skills gap and the growing demand for green energy solutions.

The programme comes at a critical juncture as Northern Ireland works towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, creating unprecedented opportunities for electrical professionals willing to adapt to the changing energy landscape.

Comprehensive Training in High-Demand Skills

Successful applicants will have the opportunity to pursue up to three specialist qualifications, including Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Installation and Maintenance, Electrical Energy Storage Systems (Battery Storage), and Domestic and Small Commercial Electric Vehicle Charging Installations.

Training will be delivered at ETT’s purpose-built Cleantech Training Centre in Ballymena, combining practical, hands-on experience with classroom-based instruction and formal assessment, ensuring participants gain both theoretical knowledge and real-world competence.

For local electricians like those who will benefit from the scheme, the academy represents more than just professional development—it’s a lifeline in an evolving industry. The renewable energy sector is experiencing rapid growth, and electricians equipped with these specialised skills are increasingly in demand as homeowners, businesses, and public sector organisations invest in sustainable energy solutions.

Supporting Economic Growth and Employment

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, emphasised the programme’s dual benefits for both individuals and the broader economy.

“This fully funded academy demonstrates our commitment to equipping local people with the skills needed for a greener future, while supporting economic growth across the Borough,” she said.

The initiative is designed to help participants not only retain their current employment but also access promotion opportunities and secure lucrative new contracts in the expanding renewable energy sector.

ETT Project Lead, Tina McMullan, highlighted the programme’s significance for the local workforce and economy.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for local electricians to gain the skills and recognised qualifications needed to move into in the growing renewable energy sector. It’s about upskilling the electrical workforce, supporting local businesses, and contributing to Northern Ireland’s green economy,” she said.

Meeting Northern Ireland’s Green Transition

As the region accelerates towards its low-carbon future, qualified electricians are becoming essential to the safe and efficient installation of renewable and low-carbon technologies. From residential solar panels to commercial battery storage systems and the expanding network of electric vehicle charging points, trained professionals are the backbone of Northern Ireland’s energy transition.

The Cleantech Upskilling Electrical Training Academy addresses this need directly, ensuring that local electricians possess the recognised qualifications and practical expertise required to work confidently with emerging technologies.

Application Details

Applications are now open for electricians with the necessary qualifications to enrol in the accredited Level 3 courses. The programme is specifically designed for electrical professionals based in the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough.

Interested candidates can apply by emailing info@ett-ni.org

The initiative is funded by the Department for Communities through the Labour Market Partnerships programme, which creates targeted employment action plans for council areas, enabling collaboration at local and regional level to support people towards and into work.