Buildings and energy efficiency

The transition towards renewable energy and efforts to address climate change mean buildings are being electrified, and designed and retrofitted for energy efficiency.

Common energy efficiency building improvements include:

energy efficient lighting
increased use of heat pumps
phasing out gas boilers.

New skills and occupations such as electricians, energy assessors, plumbers, engineers and grid technicians are required to support the sector.

TAFE network – Training support for buildings and energy efficiency

From January 2024, new homes in Victoria requiring planning permits must connect to electric networks.
Skills and occupations required
There is an increasing need for 2 categories of skills and occupations for this transition:
1. Specialised technical roles: There is a growing demand for professionals skilled in renewable energy technologies. This includes electricians, energy assessors, solar panel technicians, grid technicians and various engineers
2. Enhanced digital and data literacy: Existing trades such as plumbers, electricians and energy assessors must acquire digital and data literacy skills to use advanced software and technologies.
Courses available through the TAFE Network
- Certificate II in Electrotechnology
- Certificate III in Electrotechnology
- Grid Connected PV Design Accreditation Skill Set
- Solar Grid Connect – Design and Install
- Certificate IV in Building and Construction
The Victorian government increased the energy efficiency building standards for new homes from 6 to 7 stars in 2022. This change requires new homes to be built and designed with improved insulation and window glazing, and use fixed appliances that are energy efficient.
Skills and occupations required
New skills are required to design buildings to optimise energy efficiency and enable renewable energy usage. Designing energy-efficient buildings and installing and maintaining renewable systems like solar panels are essential skills for the evolving energy sector
Courses available through the TAFE Network
- Certificate IV in Building and Construction
- Certificate IV in Home Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
- Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration
- Solar Grid Connect – Design and Install
As the transition to all-electrified buildings progress, retrofits of buildings for energy efficiency requires technical skills to decommission old systems and replace them with energy efficient system and devices.
Skills and occupations required
As the state transitions away from fossil fuel-based systems and appliances, retrofit technicians, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC professionals specialised in energy efficient systems are in demand. The required skills encompass both the technical expertise needed to dismantle outdated systems and capability to intergrade smart devices.
Courses available through the TAFE Network

To learn more about training and partnership opportunities in this part of the clean economy, please reach out to your local TAFE, or email TAFEcleaneconomy@ecodev.vic.gov.au

Updated 8 April 2024