The Green Accelerator Skills Programme (GRASP), led by South West College and supported by PEACEPLUS, has officially commenced its latest term, offering fully funded, accredited green skills training for construction professionals across Northern Ireland and the border regions of Ireland. The initiative aims to address the growing need for low-carbon skills in the sector while helping participants save up to £1,200 (€1,460) per person.

In a published report by Business Eye, the said programme provides access to specialist courses covering sustainability, energy efficiency, retrofit, low-carbon technologies, Passive House design, Photovoltaics, Heat Pump systems, Building Information Modelling (BIM), insulation, airtightness, and environmental management. 

Courses are delivered through a hybrid model, combining online learning with hands-on training in industry-standard facilities.

Lecturer in Passive House, Gary Kelly, said: “Passive House skills are rapidly becoming essential across the construction sector as clients, regulators, and occupants demand high-performance buildings that genuinely perform as designed. From my perspective as a part-time lecturer and practicing architect, the Passive House Designer and Tradesperson programmes are by far the most impactful courses I teach.”

The programme is designed to remove financial barriers while enhancing workforce skills, enabling businesses and individuals to meet regulatory and environmental demands. 

Student Brian Munnelly noted: “The CEPH course gave me a strong technical understanding of Passive House principles and has directly improved my work as an Energy Assessor and Civil Engineer. The support from South West College was excellent and being able to complete it fully funded through GRASP made it accessible and hugely worthwhile.”

Delivered through collaboration between colleges, education and training boards, and Atlantic Technological University (ATU), GRASP equips participants with practical, industry-ready skills that can be applied immediately on site or in professional practice. 

Explore how GRASP is equipping the next generation of construction professionals to meet Net Zero targets.