The Victorian Government is launching a major new training initiative to upskill the state’s construction workforce on building highly energy efficient homes.
The Renewable Homes Construction program, announced by Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio, will provide free training on designing and constructing seven-star rated, all-electric homes.
The program aims to prepare Victoria’s residential construction industry for the National Construction Code 2022 that took effect on May 1, 2024.
“We’re training our builders, electricians and plumbers so they can build more energy efficient homes – helping Victorians slash their emissions and cut their power bills,” Lily D’Ambrosio, Victoria’s Minister for Energy and Resources said.
The new code raises energy efficiency standards, aiming to deliver more comfortable, accessible homes that are cheaper to heat and cool.
The government estimates homeowners could save over $4,200 on energy bills through the improved standards.
Training will be delivered through Home Efficiency Construction Roadshows held across metropolitan at sites across Melbourne and regional Victoria, including Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong, Shepparton, Echuca, Mildura, Albury, Bright, Mansfield and across Gippsland.
The roadshows, run by Solar Victoria with industry groups, will cover passive house design, avoiding condensation, energy efficient appliances and construction techniques.
Additional online and short course training modules are being developed on residential energy efficiency, thermal performance, net zero energy home design and construction.
The government is also funding training for electricians to become accredited solar PV and battery storage system installers and designers through the Upskilling for Electricians program.
A similar initiative for plumbers on heat pump and solar hot water installation is planned for later this year.
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