DOE’s Energy Skilled program for the first time recognized an equipment manufacturer for developing a curriculum to train workers for meaningful and in-demand job opportunities that align with national clean energy transition goals.
May 2, 2024
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The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Energy Skilled program for the first time recognized an equipment manufacturer for developing a curriculum to train workers for meaningful and in-demand job opportunities that align with national clean energy transition goals. Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC (METUS), a leading supplier of ductless and ducted mini-split and variable refrigerant flow (VRF) heat pump and air-conditioning systems, received recognition in March for its Residential Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising training course.
The growth in residential heat pump sales—which outpaced gas furnace sales for the first time in 2022 and through 2023—has in turn fueled demand for improved training standards in the HVAC industry. DOE’s Energy Skilled program distinguishes workforce training programs that help workers develop the skills, knowledge, and abilities to successfully implement next generation energy-efficient technologies and services in residential buildings. In 2023, DOE’s collaboration with industry organizations such as North American Technical Excellence and HVAC Excellence yielded the first two Energy Skilled recognitions. Several more organizations have been recognized since.
“Contractors who are well-trained in installing and advising on next-generation heat pump systems are poised to be energy heroes in their communities,” said Mandy Mahoney, director of DOE’s Building Technologies Office. “We recognize the role that METUS plays in equipping contractors with the skills and knowledge they need to take advantage of new energy-efficient technologies and deliver the benefits to their neighbors.”
Engineers from the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) evaluated the METUS curriculum for heat pump installation and comfort advising against the key concept knowledge areas DOE defined for these job scopes. That evaluation led PNNL and DOE to determine that contractors who complete the METUS Residential Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising training program should be well-equipped to serve customers seeking to improve their home’s energy efficiency by installing heat pump systems.
“Here at METUS, we are committed to leading the charge to reduce the use of fossil fuels in the spaces we live and work,” said Brent Constant, senior director of technical solutions. “Contractors are an essential component of how we accomplish that goal. With that in mind, we are always looking for new ways to enhance and optimize our training facilities and strategies.”
HVAC contractors who previously completed METUS “M-Series & P-Series" two-day in-person class training can earn the Energy Skilled-recognized certificate by completing a two-hour supplemental online training session. Contractors who have not completed METUS training can achieve the certificate in one of two ways: (1) a combination of in-person training and the two-hour supplemental online session, or (2) a longer instructional program online. Contractors can register for courses via the METUS Contractor Training Portal.
Contractors who complete the METUS Residential Heat Pump Installation and Comfort Advising training—or another credential program recognized by Energy Skilled—can feel confident in their vital role in helping Americans make home updates that save energy and increase their comfort. Energy Skilled recognition categories include Heat Pump Installation, Heat Pump Comfort Advising, Heat Pump Water Heater Installation, and Home Energy Audit. Later this year, new categories will be available for certain home envelope upgrade jobs.
[Energy Skilled was developed by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to indicate receipt of recognition and is not an endorsement by DOE. Reference to any specific commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States government or any agency thereof.]
Want to recommend a training program or certification for recognition? Please reach out to [email protected]. For more information on Energy Skilled, visit https://bsesc.energy.gov/recognition.