Energy transmission and distribution

Victoria is rapidly shifting towards renewable energy, targeting 40% by 2025, 65% by 2030 and 95% by 2035.

The move towards distributed energy resources is evident, with numerous households and businesses generating their own energy, particularly via solar PV systems, facilitating energy decentralisation.

The Victorian Government is also promoting small microgrids, often renewable-powered electricity networks which are especially beneficial in remote areas.

TAFE network – Training support for energy transmission and distribution

In Victoria, group energy initiatives, especially PV systems, empower local communities. These projects promote sustainability and lower energy costs. Victoria fosters a more inclusive and eco-friendly energy model by involving communities in renewable energy generation.
Skills and occupations required
Engineers, electricians and solar system technicians.
Courses available through the TAFE Network
- Course in Working Safely in the Solar Industry
- Grid Connected PV Solar Systems
- Grid connected PV with Battery Storage
- Grid Connected PV design accreditation Skill Set
Whilst Victoria has sufficient energy generation capacity to meet its electricity demand, the energy supply can become strained during peak usage. Demand management strategies and tools can be implemented to manage this problem.
Skills and occupations required
Skills and occupations required to manage energy demand include energy assessors, electricians, electrical engineers, HVAC technicians, renewable energy specialists, and engineers as well as software developers and IT specialists.
Courses available through the TAFE Network
- Certificate III in Electrotechnology – Electrician
- Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (Apprenticeship) – Renewable Energy
Renewable energy sources are dispersed across the state, requiring transmission lines and grids to be updated. Current projects focus on expanding the capacity of existing lines for increased renewable energy, constructing new high-voltage transmission lines for efficient electricity transport, developing interconnectors to enhance Victoria’s connectivity with the National Electricity Market, and building extra infrastructure for grid stability and fault prevention.
Skills and occupations required
Variety of skills and occupations such as electrical and civil engineers, power system operators and technicians, renewable energy specialists, project managers, and electricians are required to support the update of transmission lines and the grid.
TAFE network support
- Certificate II in Transmission Line Construction
- Certificate III in ESI – Distribution Overhead
- Certificate III in ESI - Distribution Underground
- Certificate III in ESI – Transmission Overhead
- Certificate IV in ESI – Network Systems.
Microgrids generate and store electricity locally, support communities and households with power during high-impact and extreme weather events.
Skills and occupations required
Supporting microgrid installation requires diverse skills and occupations, including electrical and renewable energy engineers, electricians, and installers.
Courses available through the TAFE Network
- Advanced Diploma of Engineering Technology – Electrical
- Certificate II in Electrotechnology
- Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (Apprenticeship) – Renewable Energy

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