With the introduction of a new LCL-accredited certification, the centre now offers industry-recognised qualifications in sustainable heating, ensuring graduates leave fully equipped to meet the UK’s growing demand for clean, low-carbon heating solutions. 

The UK Government states that heat pumps will play a crucial role in meeting the country’s net-zero targets and has set a target of 600,000 heat pump installations by 2028. According to the Heat Pump Association, the UK will need 41,000 heat pump installers by 2028, and there are currently 5,000 MCS-certified installers, highlighting the importance of the Aira Academy as a key enabler to this much-needed transition. In the UK, there are over 150,000 Gas Safe engineers, and the Academy offers a clear pathway for these experienced engineers to transition into a career in renewable energy.

In 2024, the UK experienced a significant surge in heat pump adoption, with sales of heat pumps reaching approximately 100,000 units, representing a 63% increase over the previous year. As one of the UK’s leading heat pump installers and service providers, Aira is rapidly scaling with a nationwide network of hubs serving millions of homes across England and Scotland. During the event, Toby Perkins MP spoke with the Aira team about the critical role heat pumps play in reducing carbon emissions and lowering household energy bills by over £500 a year for homes across the country.

Mr Perkins’ visit coincides with a significant planning policy change, taking effect from 29 May, which makes it easier to install air source heat pumps in England without the need for planning permission. To accelerate the transition and future-proof homes across England and Wales, the Government offers a £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant to switch from a gas boiler to a heat pump.

Sarah Stevens, Aira UK academy manager, commented:'Building this training centre from the ground up over the past year has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. We’re not just running courses; we’re shaping the future of the heating industry. It’s incredibly fulfilling to help both apprentices and experienced heat engineers gain the qualifications they need for a high-skill, future-proof career, one that makes a real difference to people’s homes and the planet.

“An apprenticeship with Aira is a smart, debt-free route into the booming renewables sector. We want people who are hands-on, driven, and genuinely passionate about climate action and low-carbon innovation. This is more than just a job—it's a mission. And we’re proud to be leading that movement.'

Toby Perkins MP (Chesterfield and Staveley), Chair of the Environment Audit Committee said: 'Aira is making a major contribution to the Yorkshire region—not just through investment in its Skills Academy, but by creating high-quality jobs that are accelerating the rollout of low-carbon heat pumps and strengthening our national energy security. Having a facility like this in our community is a huge asset and it puts North Derbyshire and South Yorkshire at the forefront of the UK’s clean energy transition.

“The recent funding boost for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, along with this month’s changes to permitted development rights, removing the need for planning permission to install heat pumps, show that the government is serious about backing this sector. It’s an exciting time for heat pump technology in the UK, and I look forward to seeing Aira continue to lead the way.”