Heat Networks Operation & Maintenance Vocational Course & Introductory Video Development

In 2020, the Heat Network Skills Review found that while there is a growing heat network market in the UK, there is a risk that the UK heat network supply chain may not attain the capability and capacity needed at a pace that keeps up with market growth. The sector already faces a skills gap, which is likely to become more acute as the industry grows . Recent work by BEIS has indicated that many existing heat networks in England and Wales are operating sub-optimally leading to customer detriment. Many network operators (particularly Local Authorities and Housing Associations) lack access to specialist staff and the time to identify and address issues.

As part of the Heat Network Skills Programme, BEIS are looking to develop a series of vocational courses as a route to improving the capabilities of staff operating and maintaining heat networks , particularly to support poorly performing communal and campus networks. Alongside the courses, this project will also include a series of introductory videos to highlight the courses produced, as well as careers in the heat networks sector.

These courses and videos aim to: 1. Provide access to free introductory training videos to upskill individuals responsible for managing buildings or procuring building services to improve the operation and maintenance of heat networks within buildings. 2. Support the upskilling of staff involved in commissioning and undertaking heat networks operation and maintenance through the development of accredited courses and online training videos. 3. Promote the heat networks sector and highlight the range of careers in heat networks through online videos. 4. Communicate the availability of the video and courses to a targeted comms campaign. 5. Share lessons from previous BEIS programmes as well as the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme so as to prepare the market for the future heat network standards and stimulate associated training provision.

*Please refer to the HNSP O&M Project Description document in the attachments section for a more detailed overview of the requirement and expectations of the early engagement event*

Additional information: This Prior Information Notice is being issued to undertake a pre-market supplier engagement event with regards to the current view of the requirement detailed above. BEIS would like to hear feedback from potential suppliers based on the following:

- Confirmation on whether you would be interested in this tender.

- Views on what should be included in an operation and maintenance syllabus for heat networks within buildings.

- Views on how we should be engaging with training providers through this project to encourage uptake of these courses.

- To consider if you can deliver the online training videos in house, alongside the operation and maintenance course development.

- To consider an estimation of the cost for this requirement; course development and video development.

- Any other comments from suppliers regarding this work.

We would like to invite prospective bidders to attend a pre-market engagement session on 14 December 2022 at 10:30 via MS Teams.

Should you wish to attend, please register your interest by 17:00 on 12 December 2022 to [email protected]