Course description
A Community Energy Specialist is crucial in various organisations, including community energy enterprises, local authorities, housing associations, grid network operators, and commercial energy companies. This course is suitable for individuals interested in community energy, which encompasses collective efforts to reduce energy consumption and achieve low-carbon heat and power generation. Community energy projects prioritise engagement, local leadership, and positive community outcomes, addressing climate change, energy security, and affordability. With approximately 5,000 community groups across the UK, each with specific localised goals, this course offers valuable knowledge and skills for aspiring Community Energy Specialists.
Upcoming start dates
Suitability - Who should attend?
Who is this course suitable for?
“Community energy” is an all-encompassing term for people coming together to reduce energy use and purchase, manage and generate low-carbon heat and power. Community energy projects are often delivered collectively, focusing on engagement, local leadership and strong positive local community outcomes. There are now around 5000 of these community groups UK-wide which often have distinct, specific localised goals with an overarching benefit of tackling climate change, energy security and energy affordability.
Outcome / Qualification etc.
Knowledge
- Technology
- Energy efficiency
- National and local grids
- Legislation, guidance and policy
- Financial support
- Project management
Skills
- Community and corporate engagement
- Leadership
- Negotiation
- Communication
- Public speaking
- Project management
- Risk management
- Financial management
- Project funding
- Site and building evaluation
- Report writing
- Data analysis
- Problem-solving
- Administration
- ICT skills
Training Course Content
These are the personal attributes and behaviours expected of all energy specialists carrying out their roles
- Commitment: A personal commitment to the principles of environmental sustainability and stronger communities.
- Empathy: Ability to understand the concerns and approaches of voluntary community groups to inform actions.
- Interpersonal skills: Ability to form strong professional relationships with a diverse demographic.
- Teamwork: Ability to work cooperatively with individuals and groups to achieve a defined goal effectively.
- Personal accountability: Responsible and self-motivated, able to work with little supervision.
- Conscientious and meticulous: Desire to perform tasks to the best of your ability and ensure thorough work preparation.
- Adaptability: Ability to evaluate the merits of a situation and be open to alternative approaches.
- Flexibility: Be flexible in your approach to work, adapting to changing market and policy landscapes
Continuing Studies
Roles & Responsibilities may include:
- Securing Funding for Projects
- Identifying Renewable Energy Sources
- Managing Return on Investment or ROI
- Marketing & Communications
- Providing Legal Assistance
- Monitoring & Managing Performance
- Community Representation