Distance no barrier for electrician to upskill for free

Licensed electrician Arvin recently completed the Grid-Connected Battery Storage Systems Designer-Installer Skill Set (UEESS00191), delivered through the TAFE Centre of Excellence Clean Energy Batteries and fully funded for eligible participants.

The four-day course equips licensed electricians with the skills needed to design and install battery energy storage systems, helping address critical workforce shortages in Australia's rapidly evolving energy industry.

Recognising the increasing demand for battery and renewable energy solutions in his regional community, Arvin saw the training as an opportunity to future-proof his business and expand the services he can offer customers. 

"This industry is evolving quickly and I can see where battery storage and renewable energy are heading. I didn't want to be left behind. Being able to develop these skills now means I can be ready for the opportunities that are coming," said Arvin.

The training was the next step in Arvin's professional development journey with TAFE Queensland. Last year, he completed his solar installation training through TAFE Queensland's Bundaberg campus and was eager to continue building his expertise in the clean energy sector.

With significant residential growth forecast for the Bundaberg region, Arvin believes battery storage solutions will play an increasingly important role for homeowners and businesses. 

"Bundaberg is growing rapidly, with thousands of new homes expected in the coming years. I could see there would be strong demand for renewable energy and battery solutions, so gaining these qualifications made sense for both my customers and my business," he said.

A key motivation for enrolling in the course was developing a deeper understanding of battery system design, configuration and installation, while strengthening his knowledge of workplace health and safety requirements. 

"I wanted to learn how to properly design and configure battery systems and ensure they're installed safely and correctly. The course gave me greater confidence in battery storage systems, how they're connected and the design considerations involved. It felt like the natural next step after my solar training," said Arvin.

The fully funded training has also accelerated Arvin's plans to expand into the solar and battery market. 

"My long-term goal was always to move further into the solar industry, but the cost of private training meant I would have had to complete the qualifications gradually over several years," he said. 

"When I found out this training was fully funded, I jumped at the opportunity. It's allowed me to fast-track my plans and move much more quickly into the next stage of my business. As someone investing in my own professional development to expand my services, having access to free training has made a huge difference."

Arvin encourages other licensed electricians considering the course to take advantage of the opportunity. 

"Make the time and do it. These are valuable skills that will stay with you for your entire career. The clean energy sector is growing, and having these qualifications opens up new opportunities for the future."

Watch our video to learn more about the training.