EARTH Extend Accredited Renewables Training for Heating Programme Intelligent Energy

EARTH Extend Accredited Renewables Training for Heating Programme: Intelligent Energy for Europe (EIE) – ALTENER EIE/04/038/S07.38559 Work Package 1 Report on biomass training, draft ver 1 SOLPROS Heidrun Faninger-Lund and Peter Lund Oltermannintie 13A4, FI-00620 Helsinki July 2005 Contents Contents ..................................................................................................................................1 Introduction.............................................................................................................................2 EIE Earth project ....................................................................................................................2 Scope and structure of WP1....................................................................................................3 Summary of country surveys ..................................................................................................3 Austria.................................................................................................................................4 Bulgaria...............................................................................................................................4 Finland ................................................................................................................................4 Germany..............................................................................................................................5 Greece .................................................................................................................................5 Lithuania .............................................................................................................................6 Slovenia ..............................................................................................................................6 Spain ...................................................................................................................................6 UK.......................................................................................................................................7 Synthesis of findings...............................................................................................................7 Conclusions.............................................................................................................................9 Appendices: full country surveys .........................................................................................11 DISCLAIMER This report has been prepared as part of the EARTH project. The European Commission co-funds the EARTH project under the Intelligent Energy-Europe programme. The sole responsibility for the content of this publication lies with the authors. It does not represent the opinion of the Community. The European Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein. 1 Introduction This report presents the outcome from the WP1 of the EARTH project on biomass training opportunities in the participating countries. The report starts by a short presentation of the EARTH project and WP1 followed then by summaries and findings from the country reports. The full country reports are included in the Appendix. This report has been compiled by SOLPROS from Finland. EIE Earth project The EARTH project of the EU’s EIE programme seeks to promote renewable energy use through the creation of courses on the installation of these energy technologies. EARTH focuses on three RES technologies, namely solar water heating, ground-source heat pumps and biomass heat sources. The size of applications is restricted to the typical capacity of small SME installing companies, e.g. domestic or single-family houses or small municipal and office buildings. The biomass mainly includes woody fuels for heating (e.g. pellets, chips, logs) but in southern countries agricultural residues may also be relevant. Creating competent and qualified workforce of installers through well-designed and need matched courses will promote the wider implementation of these selected renewable technologies by removing quality barriers and improving consumer confidence in these new technologies. The project will extend audit and certification procedures for renewable energy training. EARTH project has several target groups. Direct beneficiaries are the training institutions, installation companies and their personnel who will offer EARTH based courses to RES installers in the participating countries. But consumers, financiers, energy agencies and housing developers will gain from the project outcomes as well, i.e. through the better quality and better supply of qualified installers. The EARTH project is built up from six working packages as follows: 2 The first working package WP1 deals with the review of existing training programmes and providers in the participating countries. It will provide important input to defining the contents of the courses (WP2 and WP4). Scope and structure of WP1 The scope of the working package 1 is to review existing training programmes, frameworks and training providers for the three technology areas in each of the participating countries which are Austria, Bulgaria, Finland, Germany, Greece, Lithuania, Slovenia, Spain, and UK. The working packages give a comprehensive description of the training opportunities, covering design, installation and maintenance training in each country. Central issues to be discussed with training providers included the following: The country surveys and reviews are organized according to the following topics: o o o o listing and assessment of existing relevant training infrastructures needs of training organizations, industry and students identification of training providers to deliver accredited courses discussions with regional and national training bodies. Each participating country has been responsible for organizing and compiling the national surveys and reviews. The Subtask Leaders have then complied the technology specific summary reports. The WP1 leader is SOLPROS from Finland, also responsible for the WP1 Subtask on Biomass. CRES from Greece is responsible for ground source heat pumps and IT-POWER from UK for solar water heating, respectively. Summary of country surveys The 9 country surveys provide a macro level view on existing training through the review of training programmes and infrastructures but also a micro level insight through the review of relevant courses and discussions with key players in each country. In the following, a short resume on biomass training in each country is presented: 3 Austria The basic heating and sanitary installer vocational training in Austria includes some basic knowledge on alternative energy forms but is not satisfactory enough for biomass heating systems. A new experimental program for eco-energy installations has been initiated in Upper Austria which may positively influence apprentice training in vocational schools in near future. On the professional further training side there are several courses and course providers. The most comprehensive and esteemed one is the biomass training course provided by the Austrian Biomass Association in cooperation with several other organizations. These courses are organized regionally as 3 day events including practical training. To receive an official certificate for a “Biowärme-Installateur” qualification, the participants need in addition to a course to prove evidence of at least 5 installed biomass heating systems. Some 1/3 of all sanitary and climate equipment installers have acquired this certificate. The Austrian Biomass Association is an accredited body for the certification of installers. In general the accreditation of training programmes and training providers is considered positive by the different stakeholders but the process is rather bureaucratic and long and the process is regulated through state laws. Bulgaria A new European style vocational education and training policy framework has just recently been established in Bulgaria. The supply of training courses in biomass is very limited because the market of renewable energy is still quite underdeveloped which also explains the lack of competent training providers . Most of skills even for installers are acquired through university level studies. Several companies operating in Bulgaria, for example ERATO, provide in-house training courses for their installers. Glavbolgarstroy is the only company offering an accredited course but not on technologies of interest here. Sometimes installers are trained abroad. National Union of Installers is the main branch organization for installers and it carries out different activities in the area of vocational training. A Center for Vocational Training was recently established complying with EU standards and striving for being accredited. Finland Finland has the highest share of biomass utilization in Europe and an extensive tradition of using biomass for heating of buildings. The 43 local technical training institutes in the country provide basic vocational qualification and special qualification schemes for heating system and sanitary installers. Biomass heating is marginally included in the existing vocational programmes but vary somewhat from region to region. Specific 4 training courses on biomass systems are mainly offered by private companies (in-house training) or associations. Some technical colleges have take initiatives to provide training for biomass boilers. On a slightly higher technical level than the installer, the training and education offering in Finland is ample. Biomass Associations or technical vocational schools/colleges (e.g. in Pori city or Northern Carelia)) may be the proper accredited bodies for providing certificated training in biomass. Certified courses are considered useful but the time that can be allocated for training is limited to a few days. Germany The vocational training is mainly based on a dual system comprising basic vocational training and training at work place. The programme for installation technicians in sanitary, heating and air-conditioning (SHK) was introduced in 2003 and takes some 3.5 years. This programme would be relevant to biomass training elaborations. Biomass is not a part of the vocational training system in Germany. Special training courses have mainly been organized by private organizations and manufacturers. During the last years several institutions have organized biomass training courses, but without continuity. Federal educational regulations do not interfere with the advanced training. The need of an accredited biomass training framework is urgent. The chambers and confederations of skilled crafts would be very important partners for realizing biomass training schemes and these have indicated an interest in solid training. The confederations have an official status and responsibility for auditing, and therefore are essential partners for the certification of installers and the accreditation of biomass training courses. Greece Vocational training in Greece is provided through Formal Vocational Education and Training and Continuing Vocational Training. The first includes two types of training structures: apprenticeship and technical vocational schools, and institutes of vocational training (IEK); the latter by vocational training centres (KEK). The IEKs and KEKs would be potential training providers for biomass installations. Through the National Certification System of Vocational Training, vocational training certification exams are arranged biannually. The vocational infrastructure to cope with biomass training is therefore quite well established in Greece. Specific training courses on biomass for installers have not been arranged previously. The number of biomass heating installations is quite small. The space heating demand in dwellings in Greece is very small which restricts the potential of biomass for residential use. Agrobiomass/residues show a positive trend and mainly industrial applications. 5 Lithuania The Ministry of Education and Science provides licenses to different organizations to provide training according to the labour market vocational training programs. These training programmes include also renewable energy. A drawback is that none of the programme providers is an accredited institute. Labour market training centres provide training of adults, retraining and qualification improvement. These centers are controlled by the Training Quality Control Division under the auspices of the Lithuanian Labour Market Training Authority (LLTMA). The vocational training in Lithuania does not include biomass installation competencies. Manufactures have so far been the main source for training. There are also a number of university or college level institutions which could be potential training course providers in the future. Slovenia The educational system for installers includes secondary education in vocational and technical schools either as an apprenticeship and/or school-based (mainly 3 years). Biomass is not covered by the educational systems but special courses have been arranged by a fee institutions. The Agency for energy efficiency and renewable energy (AURE) has offered two day seminars and a certificate on biomass training. AURE is considered as an important partner for further elaboration of biomass training. Potential training providers include a number of institutes: the Section of Installers-Energetics carries additional vocational education to installers, the School Center Velenje runs several vocational secondary schools and has appropriate facilities for education. Many manufacturers arrange in-house training for biomass installers. As to the contents of training, a 3 days course would be enough. Also, the practical knowledge of potential installers is perceived as a problem. Accreditation process of training is perceived positive but the process is open and unclear. Spain The vocational school mainly provide the professional training is Spain. ¼ of the training is carried out at the workplace. The studies are regulated by the Ministry of Science and Education. The vocational programme on Maintenance and Production Service is closest to the EARTH but does not include biomass parts. Advanced training is provided both through regulated and unregulated channels. Under the latter one finds chambers of skilled crafts that provide different services including training to their members. The chambers of skilled crafts will be important partners for creating and performing biomass training courses. The chambers have an official status and responsibility for auditing (certification of installers and accreditation of biomass training courses). Municipalities may also be important partners to support the training. 6 There is an inherent interest among companies for certified training but training should be timewise short. In the past, ICAEN has arranged short training courses more sporadically. UK There are various routes in UK to qualify as a plumber or heating engineer. The qualification requirements are determined by the National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) and are provided by Further Education Colleges or other training providers. The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) works closely with the National Training Organisations to accredit courses and qualifications. NVQ’s are the sole responsibility of the QCA throughout the UK. Awarding bodies are responsible for the development and implementation of qualifications based on of National Occupational Standards (NOS) for which the Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) are responsible, respectively. There are some ten awarding bodies relevant to EARTH. QCA and SSC are the main accrediting bodies. There are no structured installer training courses for small-scale biomass in the UK which lead to a recognized qualification. The training infrastructures are, however, well suited for the introduction of training courses and a number of awarding bodies with interest exist as well. In addition to biomass knowledge, an installer should have multiskills to provide turnkey installations. Further Education Colleges have expressed interest to supply training courses in biomass. Synthesis of findings Based on the country survey, a number of common and essential components for biomass training in EU have been identified. These are listed in the following: o The closest and most relevant profession for biomass installer training would be a plumber, piper fitter, heating engineering or technician of sanitary and heating equipment. These basic training schemes of installers are quite similar in the different countries though been named in different ways from country to country. The basic vocational training schemes to provide an installer with adequate skills is also quite uniform corresponding to about a 3 years education containing both classroom and workplace learning. Of all RES heating technologies biomass actually resembles mostly traditional heating systems or boilers – biomass is a solid fuel though with different properties than traditional fuels. Therefore, the classical installer training is a good starting point and preferable prerequisite for the biomass installer training. o The participation countries’ target groups perceive biomass installer training as special or advanced training coming after the basic vocational training and after some work experience. The training should provide a certificate and should be issued by an accredited training programme/training provider. 7 o The survey clearly shows that installer training of biomass systems in the participating countries is mostly inadequate and largely unorganized. Biomass training is mainly provided by manufacturers of biomass equipment and (private) institutes or associations. Basic vocational training schemes do not include biomass. Austria seems to be most advanced in organizing the biomass installer training – the national biomass association provides accredited courses all over the country ending with a certificate and 1/3 of all installers have acquired this; an eco-installer scheme is under introduction on the basic vocational training level of installers. Of all countries involved in the survey, the Austrian case could be the most useful to be employed as a kind of benchmark or case from which the EARTH training scheme could be further elaborated. Those countries with the smallest biomass market are also those with the least offerings on installer training. o Several potential training providers and suitable infrastructures for biomass installer training were identified. Enough of interest and willingness to cooperate with EARTH were identified among these to justify proceeding with other tasks. The type of potential organizations providing training services vary from country to country – they could be biomass associations, guilds or chambers or confederations of skilled craft, technical colleges or schools, or even manufacturers. These organizations have a living relation with the market and industries which enables reacting rapidly in their training schemes to new requirements or changes in the market. o Accreditation of training programs was welcomed in most cases. The official accreditation process is, however, in some cases unclear or bureaucratic or not well defined nationally. The handling of the accreditation process would therefore deserve attention in proper downstream working packages of EARTH. In a few countries the process is more straightforward. The above said also applies to the certification of the installers which need to be based on national practices and rules. o Preferable course contents and duration seems to be a trade-off between quality and time resource. Often installer companies are SMEs unable to spend much time to a training course. The optimum length would be 2-3 full days, in no case exceeding a week. The length of the course could be linked with the practical experience put as the prerequisite for entering the biomass installer training. Fresh installers would need a longer training whereas more experienced installers could absorb the relevant topics in a much shorter time. The recommendation here would be to go for installers with some experience which then would limit the length of the course to a few days, maximum 3. o Practical training was stressed besides “class-room” teaching which would necessitate some laboratory equipment or corresponding facilities. The contents should cover design, installation, and maintenance. Knowledge of subsidy schemes and biomass related legislation is also useful. The course should end with an exam leading to a certificate. In one participating country at least, the certificate would require in addition to passing the course also proving evidence of having installed successfully a few systems in practice. o The certificate could be either permanent or time restricted – in the latter case participation in some “refreshing” seminar or event would be necessary to keep the certificate. Taking the fact that new technology developments enter regularly the market, providing short update training sessions (e.g. ½ day) could be useful in any 8 way. In the future, the installer needs more and more multi-skills to provide turnkey installations preferred by the market. For example in case of a plumber specializing to biomass, this would mean also qualifications in some electric installations. EU-wide training programmes on biomass were investigated but no relevant programme was found. European biomass networks exist but these have not to our knowledge worked on installer training. The coordinator of one biomass networks considered the training dimension important. Conclusions Existing biomass installer training programmes, providers and infrastructures in the 9 participating countries have been examined in WP1 of the EARTH project. The nine countries not only represent various geographical regions in the EU but also different biomass utilization levels. This report concludes that all reviewed countries have the necessary infrastructures to provide installer training in biomass. Biomass is by nature a solid fuel based heating system which can draw synergies from existing frameworks for heating system installers or plumbers. The biomass specific training was found quite sporadic and not well established which for some parts can be explained by the so far small market for biomass heating. However, training has been realized in all countries on a more sporadic basis by different organizations, often private ones. Based on the numerous interviews with key stakeholder groups, the need of a special or advanced training course in biomass installations was identified, preferably with a strong common EU compatible dimension in its contents. Existing potential training providers showed a clear interest in being part of such training schemes to be developed under EARTH. For each country, several providers have been located. The biomass installer training could be organized in a market driven manner based on demand, but in the beginning in some countries support from renewable energy could be helpful to share the financial risks associated. The biomass installer training should be preferably targeted to installers with some working experience. The training should include both theoretical and practical parts and should be in its length not more than 3 days. The training should preferably result in a certificate and the programme/provider should be accredited if possible. The accreditation needs special attention in the corresponding WPs as the process is not always straightforward and may be bureaucratic. Summarizing, a good practice example of a biomass installer training programme would include the following elements: o the training programme is offered as a special or advanced training module to installers with working experience o the programme/provider is accredited and fulfils the quality requirements 9 o the programme/provider has continuity and regional/national range o the training programme is 2-3 days and contains both theoretical and practical parts o the provider has adequate technical facilities to provide practical training o the training programme ends preferably with a certificate to the installer o minimum requirements for the certificate is a passed exam and preferable proven evidence on having (co-)installed a few systems (the requirements for certificate need to cope with national legislation whenever there) o the training provider should offer in addition to the basic training shorter ‘refreshing‘ courses on topical issues, e.g. new biomass technologies enabling thus a kind of a life-long learning platform in biomass installations. 10 Appendices: full country surveys Austria Bulgaria Finland Germany Greece Lithuania Slovenia Spain UK 11 Title: Biomass, Austria Organization: arsenal research 1. Training infrastructures and programmes To survey the existing training infrastructures and programmes for installers of woodyfuels heating systems, a questionnaire has been sent to all the possible training providers for biomass installers in Austria. In this report have been included the courses for installers of usual woody-fuels heating systems with boilers (pellets, chips, logs), but also the courses for stove-fitters. Only the trainings of installers of small-scale systems have been considered in this overview. The infrastructure of the biomass training programs can be classified between apprentice trainings provided in vocational schools and professional further trainings. The chapters 1.1 to 1.5 are dedicated to the trainings for installers of usual woody-fuels heating systems, whereas the chapter 1.6 concerns the specific trainings for stove-fitters. An assessment of the existing infrastructures and programs is presented in chapter 1.7. 1.1 Installer apprentice trainings in vocational schools In Austria, the apprentice trainings, as a combination between theoretical education (10 weeks / year) and practical internships in enterprises, last for 3 years. The programs of the apprenticeships are established by the Austrian state. Apprentices usually begin this formation at the age of 15. After a successful apprenticeship final exam, the apprentice receives the title of companion. For sanitary and climate techniques, there are 3 different apprentice training programs: - sanitary and climate technician – gas and water installation - sanitary and climate technician – heating installation - sanitary and climate technician – ventilation installation Besides the general basic installer formation, the apprentice for gas and water installation acquires basic knowledge of the alternative energy forms. The apprentice for heating installation acquires knowledge about alternative energy forms and alternative forms of energy production. The third program (ventilation installation) does not mention any course about alternative energy forms. In addition, there is presently in the federal state of Upper Austria a fourth experimental program for sanitary and climate technician – eco-energy installation. Registration is possible till September 2005. An evaluation should then determinate if it makes sense to extend this formation to the other federal states of Austria. In this program, the apprentice receives a general installer formation with a special attention accorded to renewable energy sources. He learns how to build, mount, control and maintain installations using renewable energies (Solar thermal systems, heat pumps, 12 pellets, wood chip and log wood heating systems) including components and regulation system. The apprentice for eco-energy installation acquires the following knowledge in the field of alternative energy sources: - knowledge about energy production with biomass, heat pumps and geothermal energy production, solar thermal collectors - knowledge about solar radiation, heat transfers, optical properties of materials (absorption, emission, reflexion), - knowledge about heat stores (design, mode of operation), - knowledge about application areas of solar thermal collectors, biomass, heat pumps and geothermal systems, - search and recovery of errors in systems using renewable energy sources, - knowledge about the integration of eco-energy facilities in the household technologies and regulation systems. After a successful finalisation of the 3 years apprentice training and after a few years working experience, the companion can attempt a master training program for installers. This training program is organised in compulsory and optional modules. One of the optional modules concerns the installation of solar thermal systems. 1.2 Professional further training, Austrian Biomass Association A survey carried out by the research institute IFZ (Interuniversitäres Forschungszentrum für Technik, Arbeit und Kultur) in Graz in 1998, addressed sanitary and climate installers to be the main responsible hurdles for a wider implementation of modern automatic wood heating systems (pellets-, logwood and woodchip systems). Installers showed up to be little familiar with the installation of modern wood heating systems. Consequently, the Austrian Biomass Association, mainly financed by the Austrian Federal Ministry of the Environment, started to plan and implement training courses for sanitary and climate installers. The courses were organised in close co-operation with the chamber of agriculture, BLT Wieselburg (Federal Institute of Agricultural Engineering), and the national guild of sanitary and climate installers. Presently the courses are held regionally, practically one in each of the nine Austrian federal states (in cooperation with the business development institutes of each Federal state). They cover two days of theoretical training and one day of practical instructions at the site of an Austrian biomass boiler producer. The theoretical part of the course covers the following points: • Market situation of biomass • Ecological aspects • Biogenous fuels • Logistic • Building laws 13 • • • • • • Fire protection Subsidies Combustion techniques Firing systems Optimal hydraulic solutions Cost and profitability comparison The training is held by experts from the different sectors related to the use of biomass as heat source: among others from the Austrian Energy Agency, the Institute for fire protection and safety investigation, the Federal Institute of Agricultural Engineering and the chamber of agriculture. To receive the certificate with the legally protected denomination of “BiowärmeInstallateur” (bioheat-installer), it is necessary to follow the 3 day formation and to provide evidence of at least 5 installed biomass heating systems. Every two years, it is then obligatory, in order to keep the certificate, to attend a further training day. That is why the Austrian Biomass Association also organises further training days besides the certified training program. In that way the installers keep up to date on the evolution of the techniques. The training program for certified “Biowärme-Installateur” is the most important training program for installers of biomass facilities in Austria. The proportion of certified “bioheat installers” in Austria is about one third of all the Austrian sanitary and climate installers. 882 of them were trained between 2000 and 2004. Additionally, the Austrian Biomass Association also provides a similar training course for chimneysweepers, which is also a certified training program. The requirements to obtain the label of “Biowärme – Rauchfangkehrer” (Bioheat-chimneyweepers) are similar to those of the “Biowärme-Installateur”, except that no proof of practical experience is required. The participation to further training days is required each 3 years. 1.3 Professional further training at the solar school Güssing The solar school in Güssing is an independent organisation providing a certified training program, called Solarteur, which is consistent to 20 European solar schools. The Solarteur formation is not only a solar thermal training program but it covers the most relevant areas of the energy production with renewable energy sources. The activities of a Solarteur should include: - the optimisation of energy systems by the use of alternative energy sources, - the planning and design of energy systems, - the installation, - expert consulting. Title of the training course Training providers Solarteur Solar School, Güssing (Burgenland) 14 Trainers Number of training entities Number of persons trained Target groups Program Trainers from the practice 240 50 from the beginning of the course Installers, electrical engineering technicians and specialists from related technical professions 1. Basic principles of the installation techniques 2. Basic principles of the electro techniques 3. Ecological marketing 4. Computerised support 5. Practice (work on demo-systems in the solar school) 6. Special modules: solar thermal, photovoltaic, heat pumps, wind, biomass. The Solar School also propose courses for the pupils of the industry school from Güssing (electro techniques formation). 1.4 Professional further training, vocational school Zistersdorf The professional further training for energy production with biomass provided by the vocational school of Zistersdorf (Lower Austria) is presented in the following table. Title of the training course Training providers Trainers Number of training entities Number of persons trained Target groups Program Energy production with biomass Vocational school Zistersdorf In cooperation with the business development institute of Lower Austria Internal trainers from the vocational school External trainers from the boiler industry 28 Not known Installers 1. Forestal biomass, pellets, quality, supplying sources 2. Basis of the wood combustion, technical implementation 3. Constructional requirements, building laws, construction technique, legal frame conditions 4. Flue gas evacuation, chimney, fire security 5. Pellets: combustion, systems, examples of installations 6. Wood chips: combustion, systems, examples of installations 7. Log wood: combustion, systems, examples of installations 8. Dimensioning of the buffer store 9. Combination with solar energy 10. Hydraulic bonding, flow scheme 11. Subsidies, cost comparison 12. Practical work on different biomass boilers 15 13. Installation and putting into service 14. Service, maintenance 15. Flue gases measurements 16. Crop heating 17. Excursion to various installations. 1.5 Professional further training in cooperation with manufacturers of heating systems The business development institute of Upper Austria organises a technical training for the installation of pellet facilities in cooperation with the enterprise Buderus Heiztechnik (Manufacturer of heating systems): Title of the training course Training providers Trainers Number of training entities Number of persons trained Target groups Program Technical training for pellets facility installations Business development institute of Upper Austria Buderus Heiztechnik Experts from the heating system manufacturer Buderus Heiztechnik 24 Not known Installers of heating systems, chimney weepers, planers 1. Pellets production, properties and quality of pellets, presentation of different heating installations 2. Space holding systems 3. Design of installations, combination with solar systems 4. Putting into service and maintenance 5. Practical training and measurements at the site of the company 6. Final examination Buderus also organises various one-day training programs in different places in Austria: - Biomass pellets: properties of pellets as combustible, regulation systems, installation of pellets boilers, hydraulic system. - Biomass log wood: regulation systems, installation of pellets boilers, hydraulic system. - Biomass wood chips: properties of wood chips as combustible, regulation systems, installation of pellets boilers, hydraulic system. - Regulation systems for biomass-boilers. 1.6 Stove fitter trainings Tiled stoves represent another form of heating with biomass that is quite popular and widespread in Austria. It has been estimated that about 500,000 tiled stoves are presently in service in Austria and that about 10,000 are newly installed each year, compared to approximately 20,000 other biomass facilities. 16 The technology is very specific, that is why trainings have been developed apart from the other biomass training programs for more than 20 years. The formation of stove-fitter is carried out as apprenticeship in vocational school. The tiled-stove apprenticeship follow the same principles as that for sanitary and climate installers presented in chapter 1.1. During the 3 years of formation, the apprentice alternates between theoretical education in the vocational school and practical work by a stove-fitter. Within the finalisation of the apprenticeship final exam, the apprentice gets the title of companion. The Austrian Tiled Stove Association estimates that 150 to 200 stove-fitters are trained each year in the Austrian vocational schools. A master training for stove-fitters is then possible after a few years working experience. It is provided by the Austrian Tiled Stove Association. The trainers are external experts as well as internal instructors from the association. Approximately 20 persons are being trained each year within this program. The formation is organized in 390 training entities, in which the following points are treated: • Natural science basis • Stove systems • Design and shaping • Heating load calculation • Norms • Comfort • Computational calculations • Technical calculations After a successful finalisation of this training, the stove-fitter obtain the title of master. 1.7 Assessment of existing infrastructures and programs Usual biomass boilers (pellets, log wood, wood chips) The apprenticeships for sanitary and climate techniques only treat the topic of the renewable energy sources in a general and superficial way. They don’t come into the details of the specific requirements for the installation of biomass facilities. The new apprenticeship for eco-energy installation is more comprehensive and accurate concerning the installation of biomass facilities but it is presently still in the test phase. Presently, professional further trainings seem to be the most common training way for biomass installers. Different professional further trainings are offered but the formation for certified bioheat installers seems to be by far the most relevant one. The certification, the cooperation with the different actors in the field of biomass as well as the repartition between theory and practice are very positive points of this formation. Tiled-Stove 17 Concerning the installation of tiled-stoves, the basic education of stove-fitter is a mix between theoretical formation in vocational school and apprenticeship by a stove-fitter, and with the possibility of a further master training, is considered as fully satisfactory. It is specific to this kind of installation and has been developed for many years as a result of a long tradition. 2. Needs of target groups The certified courses of the Austrian Biomass Association, which are far the most relevant courses in Austria, seem to be very satisfactory and adapted to the needs of the target groups. The questionnaires filled in by the participants at the end of the courses reveal a high degree of satisfaction of the installers. The label of certified “Biowärme-Installateur” is today very well-known in Austria and can be used for marketing purposes. The obligation to follow further training days each 2 years ensures an update of the knowledge of the installers. Additionally, the course has been, from the beginning, continuously adapted to the technological evolutions concerning the building techniques as well as the boiler techniques, for example system optimisation, evolution towards low-energy buildings, combination of biomass with solar energy. The close cooperation with guilds also ensures a quick response to any changes in the needs of the installers. Concerning the specific formation for tiled-stove installations, the stove-fitters are also very satisfied. The long tradition in this field assures a good quality of the formation. The actual evolutions, for example towards a combination between tiled-stove and solar and/or without complementary heat source have been included in the courses. 3. Potential training providers to deliver accredited courses As a logical continuation of the 2 last chapters, the Austrian Biomass Association can be considered as the most suited training provider to deliver an accredited course. Its close cooperation with all the sectors related to the use of biomass as heat source (guilds, agricultural chambers, Austrian Energy Agency, federal institute of agricultural engineering, institute for fire protection and safety investigation…) and its experience acquired in the field of the formation since 1998 make the Austrian Biomass Association very suitable for the delivery of an accredited course for biomass installers. Moreover, it is already an accredited body for the certification of installers. 3.1. Existing training platform Klima:aktiv is an initiative of the life ministry for active climate protection. The objective is to increase the energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies. It is organised in different programs, for example training, energy-efficient municipalities, eco-facility, solar heat, operational mobility management, wood as energy source, 18 biogas, quality management of biomass heat plants and thermal-energetic renovation of residential buildings. The training platform of klima:aktiv has the objective to provide all the qualification necessary for the implementation of the different klima:aktiv programs, with a special focus on professional further training. This training platform is responsible for the coordination of the different trainings but does not finance any projects, courses or manuals. The training strategy consists of the following points: - Development of the necessary qualification identified for the klima:aktiv programs in cooperation with the existing training providers. - Development of pilot courses with the objective to transfer them to the existing training systems (no concurrence to training supplier). - Development of certified qualification offers (or adjustment of the existing offers) in the most relevant fields of the klima:aktiv program. - Development of a trainer pool which should give information to the training suppliers concerning the election of the trainer (quality assurance). - Creation of an internet website, where a list of all the people who acquired the klima:aktiv qualifications should be available. Within the scope of the program “Energieholz” of klima:aktiv for the development of wood as energy source, a part concerning the training of installers, in which the Austrian Biomass Association is also collaborating, is included. 3.2. Accreditation of certification on trainees The accreditation of the certification on trainees occurs in Austria through the federal ministry for economy and work, according to the European norm EN 17024 Conformity assessment – General requirements for bodies operating certification of people, which established all the requirements for the accreditation. 3.3. Accreditation of programs and training providers In Austria the training programs are defined by state laws which fix the contents and length of each educational program. For example, each teaching profession is defined by a state law gazette. Higher educational programs are also submitted to state law gazettes. The accreditation of programs and training providers is thus a quite complex and long process, which seems hardly conceivable in the frame of the project EARTH. 4. Summary of discussions with training bodies The perceived effects of the accreditation are positive above all. Accreditation is seen as a way of acknowledgment of the training program and gives access to an internationally comparable quality. The main negative effect of the accreditation is linked to the additional bureaucracy. 19 The content and duration of the course supplied by the Austrian Biomass Association is described in chapter 1.2. Presently this course only addresses installers who already have a basic education for sanitary and climate techniques (apprentice training, see chapter 1.1). Confidence with technical practical work is naturally required. The Austrian Biomass Association and the installers’ guilds are presently working on the future integration of the training contents of the actual course into the installer apprentice trainings for sanitary and climate techniques. Distance learning is not foreseen since the experience has shown that much information is being exchanged through the direct contact between trainers and trainees. The practical part of the formation, which plays an important role in the biomass installers training, would also be impossible. Moreover the training course is already provided in each federal state of Austria. The requirements of new courses are mainly linked to the technological evolutions in the building techniques as well as the boiler techniques (e.g. low-energy buildings, hybrid systems biomass-solar…). 5. Conclusion The professional further training provided by the Austrian Biomass Association is the most important training program for biomass installers in Austria and is considered to be a very comprehensive program, which could be used as reference for the development of new courses. Vocational trainings for installer apprenticeships are currently not satisfactory enough in the field of the usual biomass systems. But the course presently tested for eco-installers as well as the wish of the Austrian Biomass Association to include biomass-installation in vocational trainings could make it possible to have all the installers trained during their basic formation. 20 Title: Biomass, Bulgaria Organization: Black Sea Regional Energy Centre (BSREC) Introduction - general educational and training framework in Bulgaria The National Development Plan (NDP) of Bulgaria 2000-2006, updated in April 2003, emphasizes human resource development, involving quality improvements in education and vocational training as a priority. Bulgaria has committed itself to the Lisbon Strategy adopted by the EC in March 2000. There is a clear link between levels of education and training and employment prospects. A European vocational education and training policy framework has been established to improve systems, make access to learning easier and raise skill levels. Achieving the goal is a real possibility for Europe, but it requires giving greater urgency to the reforms of education and training underway, especially in Bulgaria. The number of the Bulgarian institutions of higher education is 88, of which 41 are universities and specialized institutes and 47 are colleges. Students pursuing B.A., M.A. or doctoral studies at universities are 230,637 and those studying towards a ‘specialist’ qualification at colleges are 16,369. At colleges the majority of undergraduates study Engineering (23,5%), Health Care (23,4%), Industrial Management and Administration (16,2%). Students at the universities have similar preferences: most of them study Industrial Management and Administration (21,3%), followed by Engineering (16,3%). The student/teacher ratio is quite high - 11/1. The practical training in the Bulgarian vocational schools is organized as training practice and/or work placement. It is conducted in the training facilities and workshops of the schools, or vocational training centres, in enterprises, or training facilities at the enterprises. The schools negotiate the training terms and conditions with the enterprises. The National Agency for Vocational Education and Training grants licenses to Centers for vocational training and monitors their activities. All centres that obtained their license after 2002, offer vocational training at 3 qualification levels: level I, level II, or level III. Currently, there are 146 accredited centres and 169 branches.  7UDLQLQJ LQIUDVWUXFWXUHV DQG SURJUDPPHV This section describes and assesses the training infrastructures and programmes relating to biomass, SWH, and GSHP in Bulgaria. An attempt is made to identify all relevant training courses and include them in this section. There are only few such programmes in Bulgaria, because the market of these resources/technologies is not much developed in the country. Often designers, installers and maintainers of these technologies are engineers who acquire most of their knowledge and skills during their university studies. In addition, these studies include not only a theoretical, but also a practical part that makes them close to a training course. Due to the above reasons, this section includes also the most relevant educational programmes at the universities. It should be highlighted that, in most cases, training is provided by the respective companies (technology importers, producers, etc.) to their employees and in relation to their own needs and specific technologies. The training programmes and infrastructures are presented below. 21 ERATO Holding was established in 1989. It operates mainly in the fields of local heating, production of woodworking machines and furniture and includes 12 daughter companies. ERATO is one of the leaders on the market of heating equipment in Bulgaria. The company imports wide range of heating equipment, including boilers, cast iron and aluminum radiators, fittings for heating systems, pipe systems, burners, circulating pumps, and insulation materials. For the sales of the above mentioned products ERATO has developed a large distribution network, including more than 50 engineering companies, covering the whole territory of the country. ERATO runs several training programs, including technical training for the designers and installers of its products, customer training, and educational programs for institutes and other academic bodies. Particular interest for the current study is the training of the designers and installers who work at the companies that distribute, install and maintain the HVAC products imported by ERATO. The courses are held several times each year. They are usually two days long and involve about 20 trainees - designers, installers and maintainers of biomass and solar installations. The training takes place at: 1. ERATO thermal engineering laboratory in the town of Haskovo. The laboratory is equipped with boiler testers (capacity up to 500 kW), measurement equipment, including also gas analysis. The lab is connected to the natural gas network and this allows testing of equipment fuelled by natural gas; 2. The laboratories of the companies that produce the equipment distributed by ERATO; 3. Classrooms equipped with multimedia devices. The courses usually consist of two parts. The first one provides basic theoretical knowledge on the concerned topic, including terms and concepts. The second one is specialized and covers the following: advantages and technical characteristics of ERATO products; installation and adjustment; and maintenance. The trainers are highly qualified ERATO employees, who have been trained abroad at the companies that produce the equipment. The courses on biomass installations target persons dealing with the following: production of wood chips (through biomass shredders) and other pre-combustion biomass processing; biomass storing; boilers (capacity up to 500 kW), including installation, measurement of efficiency and maintenance. Additionally, ERATO trains designers, producers, installers, and maintainers of solar collectors and systems for combined utilization of solar energy and natural gas. ERATO provides such combined systems in collaboration with European and local partners Wolf (Germany), Gastec (The Netherlands), and Overgas (Bulgaria). The course is not accredited. ERATO grants the trainees that have completed the courses with a self-developed certificate. Central Laboratory for Solar Energy Utilization (CLSEU) to the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. CLSEU is equipped with a system for testing of solar thermal collectors. The system provides complete information about the collector characteristics. It is used for education and training of students, designers and end-users. In 2004, a one-week course was held to provide MSc. and PhD students from the technical universities in the country with knowledge on the solar thermal utilization. 22 Annual organization of this course is planned. The trainers are professors working at the laboratory. ESCO Engineering was founded in 2003. The business of the company is oriented towards application of modern technologies and economic energy efficient solutions for heating and cooling through utilization of renewable energy sources. The company targets both industrial and residential buildings and offers energy management, consulting, and technical maintenance. ESCO Engineering is the Bulgarian representative of REHAU - a German company specialized in design, installation and maintenance of solar thermal collectors. In collaboration with REHAU, ESCO Engineering conducts periodically a 2-3 day training course for the designers and installers working at the company. The course covers the 3 major areas: 1. General information about the solar installations - solar energy and ways for its utilization, solar map of Bulgaria, types of solar installations and principles of operation, definitions, efficiency, etc. 2. Components of the solar thermal installations, including installations for domestic hot-water supply (DHWS) only and for combined DHWS and heating. This part of the course describes all system components used at REHAU. 1. Design of solar thermal collectors, including detailed guidelines on the factors to be considered when designing such system. The course is held at the company’s premises by experienced professionals from ESCO Engineering and REHAU. The training materials are developed by REHAU. Glavbolgarstroy, the biggest construction company in Bulgaria, holds a course "Heating installations" at its Vocational Training Centre. The Centre is accredited by the National Agency for Vocational Education and Training. According to the Bulgarian Act on Education and Training, the successful completion of this course grants trainees with a 2-nd level of professional qualification. The course is designed for installers of heating and hot-water technologies and aims to train them mostly in the practical application of their knowledge. The course consists of 204 theoretical lessons and 516 hours of practical exercises. The trainees in each class are 6-10. A wide variety of heating installations is covered by the course, including biomass-fueled technologies and solar systems. The course includes 4 modules: ∗ General professional studies (59 theoretical and 43 practical lessons) - safety and environmental requirements, labor relationships, work organization, communication, basic computer skills; ∗ Professional studies relevant to the energy sector (60 theoretical and 80 practical lessons) - general technical preparation, organizational structure and responsibilities of different positions, mathematical skills; ∗ Specific professional studies (85 theoretical and 129 practical lessons) - thermal installations, pipe types and installation, mounting of heating installations, boilers and subscriber stations, measurement, maintenance, automation, process control; ∗ Practice (264 practical lessons) - Material processing, installation of pipes and heating installations, and tests. The trainers at Glavbolgarstroy are both university professors and persons with long practical experience. In order to complete the course, all trainees are required to successfully pass two examinations - theoretical and practical ones. 23 ECOTOP is another company that provides training in the concerned areas. The company’s activities are in the following areas: design, manufacturing, and installation of heating systems; renewable energy sources; and ventilation and air-conditioning. The company holds a course "Design, installation, and maintenance of HVAC installations and systems". The trainers are 2 full professors, 1 associate professor, 2 assistant professors and 2 Ph.D. students from the Technical University of Sofia, as well as 6 full-time ECOTOP employees (4 engineers and 2 laboratory assistants). The course is held at ECOTOP premises. It is designed for both young engineers holding university degree and technicians without such degree. The engineers are trained in design, energy efficiency, and construction of the concerned technologies, while the technicians are trained in installation and management of installation teams. Most trainees are ECOTOP employees and the rest are ECOTOP suppliers and clients. The course programme varies according to the trainee needs. The training lasts between 1 week and 1 year, depending on the trainee needs. Regardless the course objectives, lessons on work safety and environmental protection are included. ARS Engineering is a company located in Sofia, specialized in design of ground source heat pumps (GSHP). The company holds training courses on GSHP design, but they are restricted only its employees. The company management is reluctant to provide details on these courses due to confidentiality reasons. Technical University - Varna is holding an educational course Renewable Energy Sources (RES). The course is within the curriculum of students that pursue Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. The course includes: ∗ 45 hours of lectures taking place at the University premises; ∗ 18 hours of laboratory exercises taking place at an open site; and ∗ 12 hours of practical experience with RES utilization technologies in the Varna region. The course provides students with knowledge about the RES types, features, estimated potential, distribution, and utilization technologies. The course covers 10 topics: (i) history of energy demand and energy technologies and associated environmental problems; (ii) introduction to RES; (iii) Energy technologies; (iv) geothermal energy; (v) Solar energy; (vi) wind energy; (vii) biomass energy; (viii) wave energy; (ix) run-of river energy and dams; (x) other RES. The trainers are 2 associate professors and 2 assistant professors at the University. At the end of the course, all students are required to pass a 2-hour exam. A course "Renewable Energy Sources (RES)" is also held at the Technical University – Sofia, Faculty for Energy and Machine Construction. The course is a part of the curriculum Master's program of students in several subjects (for some students the course is mandatory, while for some is voluntary). Also the course is optional for students in the Bachelor's curriculum. The course covers the following topics: (i) RES - General information and types; (ii) Characteristics of solar energy; (iii) Thermal solar collectors - types, construction, elements, materials, efficiency and protection; (iv) Geothermal systems; (v) Wind energy; (vi) RES technical features and economic feasibility. 24 The course consists of 30 theoretical lessons thought by a full professor and 15 laboratory exercises thought by an assistant professor - both held at the University premises. At the end of the course, all students are required to pass a 2-hour exam. 2. Needs of target groups The needs of the target groups are closely related to the needs of the companies that deal with design, production and installation of RES-utilization technologies. These companies require from their employees to be able to design and install such systems by considering the specific characteristics in each case, as well as to be well familiar with the supply, prices and operation parameters of the system components. In 2003, there was little demand for designers, producers and installers of RES systems. The demand, however, has increased when EBRD opened a new credit line for financing of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. The new Energy efficiency act and the recent electricity price rise also contributed to such increase. Now, the companies dealing with design, production, delivery, and installation of heating equipment are increasingly promoting solar and biomass heating / hot-water systems. Examples of companies that have diversified their businesses by including solar thermal collectors are "Erato", "Barisol", "NES-SunSistem", "Argus'91", and "Kovex". New producers of solar water heaters have emerged, e.g. "Aquaclima" in Varna and "Kaindi Product" in Dobrich. New products are available on the market - e.g. new models of solar heaters "Sampo" (China), "Sunsystem" (Germany), "Topsol" (Bulgaria), "Selection Hold" (Bulgaria), "Bay Tong" (Turkey), "Kloben" (Italy), "Stiebel Eltron" (Germany), "MACSAN" (Greece), etc. In compliance with the Energy Efficiency act, all Bulgarian regions have developed a plan to introduce wider utilization of RES. Among the priorities of the plans of most regions are the wider use of solar and biomass energy. There is, however, no enough expertise in the field of the regulations concerning RES technologies, such as national and European technology standards (BDS, ISO, CEN / CENELEC, etc.). The training in the fields of SWH, GSHP, and biomass technologies is not well developed. As described in section 1, most companies train their employees by developing their own training courses and this can partly be attributed to the lack of suitable alternatives. Glavbolgarstroy is the only company that offers a widely accessible course in the concerned fields. However, although covering SWH and biomass technologies, this course does not particularly focus on them. Moreover, the course has a fixed content - it cannot be adapted to the specific needs and qualifications of the trainees. The university courses are short and have very wide focus. Moreover, they are mostly theoretical and are unable to provide students with the necessary skills. CLSEU's course on solar collector testing has been held only once and its perspectives are unclear. It seems that the biomass and SWH companies (and consequently - markets) would highly benefit from specialized training courses in these areas. These courses should not be restricted for participation. 3. Potential Training Providers 25 This section aims to list and assess potential providers of training in the concerned technology areas. Our review focuses on the Bulgarian organizations that currently provide training in these or similar areas. Our attempt to identify potential training providers faced the following challenges: ∗ In Bulgaria, the markets of the concerned technologies have started their development only recently. As a result, there is no enough expertise in the area and it is difficult to find qualified trainers. Most organizations in this field train their employees abroad (usually at the company that produces the technologies to be distributed in Bulgaria). In addition, some of the companies that hold courses (which are usually designed for their own employees only) use foreign lecturers/consultants and train their managers abroad. Consequently, it would be difficult to ensure local trainers that would meet the market needs. ∗ Most companies that conduct courses aim to keep their monopoly in their business area, or at least – in the region they operate. In this context, they are not willing to “export” their knowledge outside the company. Moreover, the most qualified experts (potential trainers) are owners and/or senior managers at one of these companies. ∗ The content of none of the existing courses is close to the ones that will be designed for the purposes of the current project. Universities offer not only too theoretical, but also too short courses, given their wide scope. The courses held by CLSEU, ERATO and ESCO are both too short (2-5 days) and too specific. Some of the ECOTOP courses are more serious, but they also focus on the particular technologies used by the company. Glavbolgarstroy offers well structured accredited course, but it is not particularly related to any of the studied technologies; Despite these challenges, all of the organizations, listed in section 1, are potential training providers. Some additional details about them, including contacts of persons who are potential training providers, are listed below: ERATO ESCO Engineering Eng. Krasimir Stanchev Haskovo, 67 Saedinenie Blvd. E-mail: k_stanchev@erato.bg Dipl.eng. Vladko Petrov 51, Andrei Liaptchev Blvd., Mladost 1, 1797 Sofia, BG Tel./Fax: +359-2-8750183 E-mail: v.petrov@esco-engineering.biz Prof. Petko Vitanov Tel.: +359-2-7144771 Prof. Dimitar Kirov Sofia 1618, Borovo, bl.208-AB, entry B, apt 23 tel. +359-2-9559958 e-mail: kirov@ecotop.bg Mr. Vasil Vutov Tel.: +359-2-9151739; +359-887-961423 E-mail: vutov@gbs-bg.com Ms. Dankin (contact person) Mr. Georgi Hristov Tel.: +359-2-9785182; 9786246 CLSEU ECOTOP Glavbolgarstroy ARS Engineering 26 TU-Sofia TU-Varna National Union of Installators Appex (solar technologies) Prof. Dimitar Kirov tel. +359-2-9559958 Prof. Atanas Mirchev Tel.: +359-52-383597; +359-888-277561 Eng. Stoyan Dimitrov Tel.: +359-32-625918 E-mail: nis@dir.bg Mr. Marinov 49, Bulgaria Blvd., bl.3, apt.9 Tel.: +359-2-4806617; 9586136 E-mail: info@apexexperts.com The above organizations have the infrastructure (study rooms, laboratories, and equipment) necessary to conduct a training course in the respective area. In addition to the organizations mentioned in section 1, other organizations are also potential training providers -–these include the Energy Efficiency Agency (EEA) and the National Union of Installers (NUI). The Energy Efficiency Agency (EEA) is a State body that is responsible for the formulation, implementation and control of the policy in the areas of energy efficiency and renewable energy. EEA has both qualified staff and close contacts with companies and government organizations working in related areas. EEA, however, is not experienced in providing training. National Union of Installers (NUI) is a branch organization of companies and experts working in the following areas: heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, refrigeration, gas supply, and water supply. The union has been established in 1995. The union aims to provide the following services to its members: coordination of their activities, provision of information and other services, network among members and with other institutions, and improve member qualification. NUI carries out different activities in the area of vocational training – training courses, seminars, and presentations of new products and technologies. In these activities, NUI closely collaborates with leading European installation companies. In particular, many course and presentation lecturers come from Germany. In order to strengthen its training activities, a short time ago NUI has established a Center for Vocational Training (CVT). The Centre objective is to provide high level of vocational training, complying with the EU standards. The Centre has an ambition to get an accreditation that is recognized in the EU. 4. Summary of discussions with training bodies Training on SWH Training on GSHP Training on Accreditation Final exam Organization Course duration Participation restricted to ERATO ESCO Engineering X X X 2 days 2-3 days Company employees, supplies, and customers Company employees 27 CLSEU ECOTOP X X X X X X X 1 week Between 1 week and 1 year Glavbolgarstroy X ARS Engineering TU-Sofia TU-Varna Total No restriction Company employees, supplies, and customers 204 theoretical + 516 No restriction practical lessons N/A Company employees 30 theoretical + 15 practical lessons 45 theoretical + 30 practical lessons Students in certain majors Students in certain majors X X 7 X X 3 X X 5 X X 3 X X 3 The only company that offers accredited course is Glavbolgarstroy. The company has a license that allows it to carry out more than 20 accredited courses, including the one on "Heating installations". This licence is inexpensive - 1200 EUR. Although most of the trainees are Glavbolgarstroy employees, the course does not focus particularly on the activities of and products used by the company. That makes this training attractive for everybody interested to improve his/her qualification and skills in the field. In addition, the trainees get a certificate that would be recognized by all potential employers. All other companies carry out courses that can be attended only by their employees or other company stakeholders. These courses aim mostly to provide specific knowledge and skills related to the company products. In this context, these courses are not suitable for accreditation. 28 Title: Biomass, Finland Organization: Solpros Biomass has been traditionally an important heating source in Finland. Close to one quarter of all primary energy originates from biomass, in the 1950s it was over 60%. Most of the biomass heated individual houses are found in the rural areas. In 2002, 27% of all buildings were heated with biomass, but the market share in new buildings was just 10%. Biomass is also used as a secondary heat source for example in direct resistance electrically heated houses. Due to the long tradition of using biomass for heating, the installer training is quite established. However, in case of newer technologies such as pellets also new training needs have arisen. 1. Training infrastructures and programmes 1.1 General installer training schemes The educational system of heating system installers in Finland is organized under Vocational Basic Qualification or Special Qualification schemes. The professional requirements are defined nationwide uniformly by a detailed guidelines of the Vocational Department “Opetushallitus” under the Ministry of Education. Installer training is offered by some 43 local training institutes (Ammattioppilaitos) all over the country. The Basic Qualification schemes of installers is somewhat thin in biomass heating systems. Normally under present practice, the installer of these systems has a basic training in heating and ventilation ending up e.g. as a heating system fitter or piping fitter. The installer is capable of doing basic piping work and install major heating components. The traditional HVAC installer training is now being transformed more and more into so-called building technology installer training in which the installer also gets some kind of basic knowledge in automation systems and electricity installations. However, very often three kinds of installers are still needed in connection with heating system installations: heating equipment and piping installer, an electricity work specialist, and an automation system specialist (installing e.g. the control system). It means that the heating system installer is not capable of performing electric installations alone. Therefore, the basic education may be shifted in the future more towards so-called multi-skill installer training to integrate multi-disciplinary skills needed in practice. An installer with the Basic Qualification training that takes about 3 years is allowed to install renewable heating systems without having the specific training in these systems. The knowledge to do this comes often through practical experience, i.e. learning by doing. Equipment manufacturers may also offer some specific training. The Basic Qualification of installers includes oil heating systems and district heating systems. 29 General renewable energy specific training is being offered to HVAC installers in the form of short special training sessions outside the official installer qualification schemes. The training providers are mainly technology specific associations or private companies delivering renewable heating systems. Recently some technical colleges (e.g. in Northern Carelia) have taken initiatives to provide training in biomass heating, especially for biomass chip boilers. 1.2 Biomass heating installer training The tradition of using biomass heating in Finland is long, but it is mainly restricted to burning logs in stoves and ovens and wood boilers, or large scale heating plants for municipal heating schemes. Biomass has a wide popularity in particular in urban areas and towns. Heating in the countryside is often based on biomass. Another popular system has been a combined oil and wood boiler. Modern small biomass heating systems for individual buildings based on pellets and wood chips are more recent technologies. Considering the traditional biomass boilers, the installer training is based on the skills received in the Basic Qualification training and practical work included in this. In practice the typical work content is dominated with piping fitting and installing of the heating equipment which skills are well provided with the basic education and apprenticeships following that. Also, the boilers do not differ so much e.g. from oilboilers in their periphery equipment – oil-heating is a solid part of the basic training. In this context, one should also mention the combined oil-wood boilers that have an important market share. The number of education providers in Finland covering traditional boilers, and thus in some way also the small-scale biomass boilers, is large. In practice every polytechnic school (“ammattioppilaitos”) which has a Vocational Basic Qualification or Special Qualification scheme for HVAC-installers would qualify for this. In recent years more specialized training has emerged around so-called heating entrenepeurships which also includes training in installing more sophisticated equipment such as wood chips boilers. Pohjois-Karjala polytechnic college and Satakunta polytechnic college and technical school in Pori have provided more specialized installer training for biomass heating systems. In addition to above, manufacturers provide own training of their equipment to installers. On a slightly higher educational level, biomass training for planners for example, is quite sophisticated. Polytechnic college at Pori offers several courses in biomass or related topic, for example: biomass burning technologies, combustion, planning of boiler plants, bioheating systems. 1.3 Assessment of the existing infrastructures and programs 30 Basic Vocational Training of installers provide already some kind of know-how in biomass heating system although this not very systematic and detailed. In particular, new type of biomass heating systems such as pellets and woodchips would require better training. There are some professional training courses arranged for installers but it seems that this is neither systematic nor certified. One reason for this seems to be the reluctance of the equipment manufacturers who provide themselves in-house training for their installers. The infrastructure for providing training would be quite satisfactory. The coordination of the biomass field is also well organized through the Finnish Biomass Association and Technical Research Centre of Finland. The state support to biomass is generous. In summary, organising a more intensive training of the installers would therefore be a viable option. 2. Needs of target groups Taking the present situation with ample but varying quality company driven in-house and some vocational related training, the response to inquiries on the needs were not well specified. The in-house training of the companies delivering equipment may be seen as a competitive advantage over those not offering training which is practice leads to some kind of passive attitude toward installer training in the equipment industries. The installer companies would have more genuine interest to training and many installers would like to perceive themselves as installers of heating systems covering a broad range of technologies rather than one single technology. A training scheme covering design, installation and maintenance is useful. The installer is often the main interface to the end-use customer. In practice the installer needs to understand the design principles in order to transform the design into a practical installation - in cases of retrofitting of the heating system, the installers often need do design modifications by themselves and even on site. Actually, the retrofitting aspects will be more important as the number of heating systems coming to an end of their lifetime is increasing in the coming years whereas new house installations are much smaller in amount. Adequate skills in commissioning and testing properly the heating system after installation would be important. The performance testing and commissioning of the biomass heating system after installation would be an important aspect to be covered. Seen from the customer perspective the installer or the installer company should have all required skills to master the installation of the heating system. This would mean not only rights to install the heating system, but the installer should have rights to make the electric connections necessary, and also be able to make the sensor and control equipment installation in connection with the heating system. 31 Certification of training and quality certification is considered valuable and important among installer companies. 3. Potential training providers For biomass heating, we would perceive the following organizations important for biomass heating installer training: • • • local energy agencies (in particular the Energy Agency of Central Finland (KeskiSuomi) and Eastern Finland (Itä-Suomi) with a large biomass resource and potential) national biomass association local technical or polytechnic colleges responsible for vocational education of installers Taking the present organizational schemes and networking of stakeholders in Finland, some kind of cooperation of above mentioned organizations with division of responsibilities would yield an optimum outcome for training. An active dialogue with installer companies and manufacturers would be preferred. 4. Summary of discussions with training bodies The key target group would be heating system installers with some practical background, say 1-3 years, not necessarily in biomass. The course would be a professional training course both with a theoretical and practical part. Optimum course length is 1-2 days, some home studies could be included, finishing with an examination. An “official” certificate of an accredited body would be issued to those that passed the examination. Pori Technology College (Porin Tekniikkaopisto) and Satakunta Polytechnic College has indicated an interest in biomass installer training. These organizations have already a full-scale teaching scheme for HVAC installers. Installation, maintenance and simple design could be the main contents for a training package. 32 Title: Biomass, Germany Organization: WIP 1. Training infrastructures and programs This section describes the training infrastructure in Germany consisting of the official training system (Ausbildung) and the advanced training programmes (Weiterbildung). 1.1 The German educational system – primary education Two-thirds of young people in Germany undergo vocational training in the dual system (duales System) for two to three and a half years, depending on their chosen occupation (Ausbildung). It is described as a "dual system" because training is carried out in two places of learning: at the workplace and in a vocational school (Berufsschule). The aim of training in the dual system is to provide a broadly based basic vocational training and impart the skills and knowledge necessary to practise a skilled occupation within a structured course of training. Those successfully completing the training are entitled to do skilled work in one of about 355 recognized occupations requiring formal training (anerkannte Ausbildungsberufe). Compulsory full-time schooling must be completed before commencing vocational training. There are no other prerequisites for admission to the dual system. Training in the dual system is generally open to everyone. The training is based on a training contract under private law between a training company and the trainee. The trainees spend three or four days a week at the company and up to two days at school (Berufsschule). The training companies assume the costs of the on-the-job training and pay the trainee a training allowance in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement in the sector concerned. The skills and knowledge to be acquired in the course of training at the workplace are set out in the training regulations (Ausbildungsordnung) and broken down in terms of content and time in a framework training plan, the particulars of which are specified by the training company in an individual training plan. School (Berufsschule) classes cover the material for each recognised occupation requiring formal training as set out in the training regulations in line with the framework curriculum (Rahmenlehrplan). There are two vocational training programmes, which are of specific interest for this project, namely education of installation technicians for sanitary, heating and air conditioning (Ausbildungsberuf: Anlagenmechaniker für Sanitär-, Heizungs- und Klimatechnik “SHK”), and the education of chimneysweepers (Ausbildungsberuf: Schornsteinfeger). Education of sanitary, heating and air conditioning The SHK-education is a new occupational field in Germany since August 2003. It replaces the former training of gas and water installer (Gas- und Wasserinstallateur) and the training of central heating and air conditioning builder (Zentralheizungs- und Lüftungsbauer). The new SHK vocational training usually lasts 3,5 years. The Rahmenlehrplan (approved 16.05.2003) is structured into 15 fields including also resource efficiency and environmental issues. One of these fields is called “integration of resource saving installations into systems of the building and energy techniques”. 33 Biomass issues are not explicitly mentioned in this Rahmenlehrplan. The German Rahmenlehrplan for the SHK-education is available at [www.shk-lehrer.de] or [www.shk-unterricht.de]. Education of chimneysweepers The education of chimneysweepers exists since a long time and usually lasts three years. The Rahmenlehrplan (approved 14.05.1997) consists of 17 training fields. As the SHK education described above, the education of chimneysweepers includes environmental and resource efficiency objectives. Biomass issues are not explicitly mentioned in the Rahmenlehrplan for chimneysweepers. The German Rahmenlehrplan for the education of chimneysweepers is available at [http://berufenet.arbeitsamt.de]. As both vocational training programs (SHK and chimneysweepers), follow the dual system, it strongly depends on the individual workplace, vocational school and teachers as well as on personal preferences and choices of the trainee, how much biomass competencies the trainee will learn. Currently, there are still considerable objections within the decision making official bodies (i.e. chambers, guilds) to include renewable energy systems into the primary education of SHK installers and chimneysweepers. Although a full integration is regarded as a long term goal, it has to be recognized, that an integration of biomass skills into the dual system would concern future trainees only. Already practicing craftsmen have to be taught by advanced training courses. Due to existing constraints in Germany, the EARTH project will focus on the development and implementation of advanced training courses. Only advanced training courses can react quickly enough to the rapidly developing technologies and applications in the fields of SHK and chimneysweepers. 1.2 Advanced training While the system of primary vocational education underlies federal educational regulations with degrees issued by state institutions, the advanced training sector is organised without state interference. In the biomass sector, private bodies, guilds, chambers of handicrafts as well as state and communal educational entities offer advanced training courses. Also, manufacturers provide training courses for SHK installers and chimneysweepers. Organizational structure of the skilled crafts There are two main types of craft organizations: the chambers of skilled crafts (Handwerkskammern) and the confederations of skilled crafts (Fachverbände). Both organisations are active on district, state and federal levels as described in more detail below. The whole organizational structure of the skilled crafts in Germany is demonstrated in Figure 1. 34 Figure 1: Organizational structure of the skilled crafts in Germany (source: www.zdh.de) Chambers of skilled crafts The 55 chambers of skilled crafts (Handwerkskammern) are non profit making corporations under public law. Membership is compulsory for every business in the region pursuing one of the 94 skilled craft trades. The chambers provide a wide spectrum of services ranging from advice on technical, financial or legal matters to vocational training and keeping the craft register. As self-governing organizations they represent the interests of the skilled craft sector vis-à-vis political institutions and public administration. They are also responsible for giving the final examinations in initial and advanced vocational training courses. This fact is very important for the EARTH project. As the chambers of skilled crafts have an official status and the responsibility for functional auditing, they are essential for the accreditation of biomass training courses and for the certification of installers. The chambers of skilled crafts are organized at regional and national level. There is an umbrella organization on national level, but each regional chamber has a high degree of autonomy. An additional substructure exists with 353 district craft organizations (Kreishandwerkerschaften), offering seminars autonomously. Target groups are craftsmen of all crafts. Chambers of craft implement a wide range of seminars, from long-term to one-day seminars. Some regional chambers are more active than others in 35 offering seminars in the field of energy efficiency and renewable energy. The same holds true for district craft organizations. Confederations of skilled crafts Unlike the chambers, the national confederations of skilled crafts (Fachverbände) are voluntary organisations. They represent specific interests of individual trades or a group of trades and offer special services to their members. They also fulfil the functions of employers' organizations, for example negotiating wages with the trade unions. Looking more closely at the organization of the skilled crafts, the bottom-up structure is basically as follows: Self-employed craftsmen working in the same trade at local level (cities, districts) may join a guild (Innung). Membership is voluntary. The different local guilds form an intervocational organization, the local council of skilled crafts (Kreishandwerkerschaft). At the level of the federal states (Länder), the professional organizations are the regional confederations of guilds (Landesinnungsverbände). At national level, all regional confederations of guilds may become members of the national confederation of guilds (Bundesinnungsverband / Zentralfachverband). On this organization level, important partners for the EARTH project are the ZVSHK (Zentralverband für Sanitär-, Heizung- und Klimatechnik) and the ZDS (Zentralverband Deutscher Schornsteinfeger). The head of the 46 National confederations of guilds is the German association of skilled crafts confederations (Bundesvereinigung der Fachverbände des Deutschen Handwerks). As guilds are very important with respect to the development and implementation of training courses, they are described in more detail. Each craft is represented by a particular guild. The main target group for biomass training are SHK installers. The SHK guilds represent 57,000 companies with 500,000 employees in Germany. Also, chimneysweepers and to a certain degree oven builders, building labourer and electrical fitters (control equipment in heating systems) are interested in the installation of biomass heating systems. They belong to separate guilds. The cooperation with confederations of skilled crafts is essential for the success of the EARTH project. Firstly, they have the technical and administrative know-how of their special discipline. For example the SHK guilds are well aware of the competencies, needs and deficits of their craftsmen and they can provide valuable advice for the development of biomass training courses. Secondly, they have strong contacts with the craftsmen of their field of work and therefore are an ideal means to address the target group for biomass training courses. So, a nation-wide introduction of biomass courses can only be realised in cooperation with the confederations of skilled crafts. Agencies and associations In Germany there are many associations, which take action in the fields of renewable energies (described in detail in section 0). Most of them deal with direct solar energies, but some of them also have biomass issues in their programs and others focus on biomass only (e.g. Carmen, BBE, DEPV, FNR). The focus of activities is very different and the organisational structure varies largely between these associations. Some associations are involved in training programs for biomass, but today no broadly accredited course, which is organized by an association, exists for biomass training in Germany. 36 Manufacturers Several manufacturers for biomass boilers are providing training courses for installers. In Germany biomass boiler companies are mainly of Austrian and German origin. Thereby, mainly the big companies are offering training courses regularly, whereas small ones generally offer training courses only exceptionally or by request. Both, the extent as well as the content of the courses given by manufacturers is very heterogeneous. 2. Needs of target groups Target groups for the EARTH project include training institutions, biomass installation personnel, plumbers, heating engineers, chimneysweepers, housing and building developers, energy bodies and associations, green financiers and consumers. To satisfy their needs in terms of biomass heating installations, it is important to identify the deficits of the existing system. In the vocational training of the German educational system no explicit biomass competencies are yet part of the official training programmes. Lessons on biomass may be offered in exceptional cases, but only on a supplementary and voluntary basis. Only when there is a sufficiently large number of enterprises, which have experience with biomass systems to be passed to the apprentices, a special biomass programme could be introduced into the “dual system”. For the time being, biomass competencies are in Germany only part of courses in the advanced training sector. A general problem of the vocational training system in Germany is the high complexity of skills, which should be known by an installer. This is a result of continuous technology improvement and puts the SHK-training system under considerable stress today. As not all required competencies can be covered sufficiently by the vocational training. A solution for this problem would be to extend the period of the vocational training, but this is a political decision and it will be very difficult to reach stakeholder consensus on this topic. Another viable strategy would be to divide the vocational training of SHK into two or three different vocations in order to reduce the complexity of the single craft. Today, the most promising approach which will also be followed within the EARTH project, is to offer advanced training courses focussing on specialized skills such as biomass. Thereby, the following problem was highlighted during biomass training expert consultation: Under the existing economic conditions in Germany, few craft firms can afford to send trainees or craftsmen to advanced training courses for a longer period. This would become more interesting for craft firms if biomass courses are accredited and if official and publicly recognized certificates can be obtained. In order to create sufficient demand for biomass training courses among installers, it is therefore essential to closely cooperate with official German craft training and education bodies which are entitled and willing to introduce certificates for qualified biomass installers. The most effective way in realizing certified advanced training courses is via the organizational structure of the skilled crafts, such as the chambers of skilled crafts (Handwerkskammern) or the confederations of skilled crafts (Fachverbände). Since there is no training programme for biomass, the confederations of skilled crafts are very interested in creating such courses. Thereby, especially the guilds of sanitary, heating 37 and air conditioning (SHK) are currently taking action to develop and implement new biomass training courses. In the last years several institutions realized biomass training courses, but no continuity was realized for the offered courses. For example, a three-days training course was initiated by the ZAE Bayern (Bayerisches Zentrum für Angewandte Energieforschung e.V.), but it was just a single sequence of ten seminars without being further established. Manufacturers are interested in and depend on consumer satisfaction and confidence. This is important for their image and thus for the promotion of their products. To ensure high quality installations, the products (e.g. biomass heaters) have to be installed correctly. Therefore, manufacturers are interested in further education of their contract installers and some firms already offer biomass training courses for installers. As the consumers rely on good, functioning and high quality products, it is useful for them to identify skilled biomass system installers. This is possible via the introduction of accredited courses and certificates for the installers. Neither accredited courses nor certificates exist at the moment in Germany. An accreditation of training providers (e.g. by ISPQ) and the introduction of a certified biomass installer diploma would therefore contribute to a higher consumer satisfaction. A good example how this can be realized is given by the Austrian Biomass Association which carries out several biomass training courses in Austria each year. These courses are accredited and installers obtain certificates, which are highly recognised in the public, though not officially issued by the Austrian government. 3. Potential training providers This chapter describes potential training providers and important partners in Germany for the development and implementation of biomass training courses. These partners are presented in a short summary and their potential role for this project is outlined. Cooperation with partners will take place on the following topics: • • • • • • • • • • Provision of technical and administrative know-how Review of the biomass task analysis and training material Links to other partners and craftsmen Political support Identification of lecturers Selection of course venues Support for course implementation Certification of course participants Accreditation of biomass training courses Publication of biomass courses (via internet, magazines) 38 3.1 Chambers of skilled crafts and confederations of skilled crafts The chambers of skilled crafts and the confederations of skilled crafts are important partners for creating and performing biomass training courses. The chambers of skilled crafts are responsible for taking the final examinations in initial and further vocational training courses. This is very important for the present project. As the chambers of skilled crafts have an official status and the responsibility for the functional auditing, they are essential for the certification of installers and the accreditation of biomass training courses. On the other hand, the confederations of skilled crafts are important partners for establishing, controlling and organizing biomass training courses. They have the knowhow of their special discipline. The SHK guilds and the guilds of chimneysweepers are well aware of the competencies, needs and deficits of their craftsmen. They can give advice how biomass training should be effectively organized. Additionally, they have strong contacts with the craftsmen in their field of work. So, a nation-wide introduction of biomass training courses can only be realized in cooperation with the confederations of skilled crafts. Thereby, guilds are essential for the realization of biomass courses on a local scale. Important partners for the development of a pilot course in the framework of the EARTH project are: • • • • • • • National confederation of German crafts (Zentralverband des Deutschen Handweks ‚ZDH’) National confederation of SHK (Zentralverband Sanitär, Heizung, Klima ‚ZVSHK’; Zentralfachverband) National confederation of chimneysweepers Schornsteinfegerhandwerks; Zentralinnungsverband) (Bundesverband des Regional confederation guilds of chimneysweepers (Landesverbände des Zentralverbandes deutscher Schornsteinfeger e.V.) SHK guilds (SHK-Innungen) Guild of tiled stoves and air heating constructions Munich (Innung des Kachelofen- und Luftheizungsbauerhandwerks, München) SHK guild Munich (Innung Spengler, Sanitär- und Heizungstechnik, München) On the national level, the confederation of SHK (Zentralverband Sanitär, Heizung, Klima) represented by Mr. Vohs and Mr. Göbel and the confederation of chimneysweepers represented by Mr. Thümmrich and Mr. Beyerstedt have been contacted. Both confederations are very interested in biomass training courses and informal meetings with the EARTH partner WIP have been arranged. On the regional level, working contacts between WIP and the SHK guild Munich, represented by Mr. Müller, have been established. Each year the SHK guild Munich offers several advanced training courses, which are presented in an annual, advanced training programme. A biomass training course has not yet been offered, but preparations for this course have been started and a cooperation between WIP and the SHK guild Munich was agreed upon. 39 Contacts have been developed with the chamber of skilled crafts of Lower Franconia (Handwerkskammer für Unterfranken), represented by Mr. Baumgartner. The chamber of skilled crafts of Lower Franconia has planned to offer biomass training courses. Although no concrete efforts have been undertaken yet, it is planned to offer the first biomass training courses in autumn 2005. The competence centre of energy techniques Würzburg (Kompetenzzentrum für Energietechnik Würzburg), Bavaria, linked with the chamber of skilled crafts of Lower Franconia, may be a good venue for biomass training courses. The general programme of the currently offered advanced training courses is published at: [www.energietechnik-hwk.de]. 3.2 Agencies and Associations This chapter presents organisations active in the field of biomass in Germany, which provide biomass training courses or may provide valuable information and technical know-how for the development of training courses in the framework of the EARTH project. BBE e.V. The BBE (Bundesverband BioEnergie e.V.) was founded as an umbrella organization in 1998 by institutions and companies active in the field of bio-energy. The main objective of the organisation is a larger appreciation of bio-energy in public and politics. Based on its know-how in the field of biomass, the BBE may review teaching material and identify speakers in the fields of marketing, environmental issues or political frameworks. The BBE may also provide contacts to its members and it may be a cosponsor of biomass training courses developed in the framework of the EARTH project. BEE e.V. The BEE (Bundesverband Erneuerbare Energie e.V.) is a German umbrella organization for all renewable energies (i.e. 26 German associations) founded in 1991. It organizes consultations with political committees, administrations, institutes and other associations with the objective to promote the use of renewable energies in Germany. The BEE can provide information and data on the actual biomass situation and political framework in Germany. It may also review teaching material and identify speakers. The BEE may also be a co-sponsor of biomass training courses developed in the framework of the EARTH project. Carmen e.V. C.A.R.M.E.N. (Centrales Agrar- Rohstoff- Marketing- und Entwicklungs-Netzwerk) was founded in 1992 by the federal state of Bavaria. The organisation promotes the development of ecological and economical agro-industrial techniques including the utilization of renewable resources like wood, rape, hemp or sunflower. It initiates, coordinates and supervises projects, collects and analyses information, and advises firms and the public. 55 institutions, firms, and organizations are member of C.A.R.M.E.N., which currently has a full time staff of 17 persons. C.A.R.M.E.N. is the focal point of biomass activities in Bavaria and may provide the EARTH project with scientific and technical information. Staff of C.A.R.M.E.N. may 40 also review teaching material, identify speakers for training courses and co-ordinate follow-up training courses in Bavaria. DENA GmbH The German Energy Agency (Deutsche Energie-Agentur GmbH), established in 2000, is a competence centre for energy efficiency and renewable energies. The DENA promotes environmentally friendly production, conversion and use of energy, and the use of renewable energy sources. The DENA initiates and coordinates corresponding projects and programmes, both nationally and internationally. Its activities are directed at specialists (e.g. industry, commerce and trade) and it provides information to end consumers. In addition, DENA functions as a service provider and contact for customers from the political arena, businesses, science institutions and associations, also organizing and chairing meetings and discussions between these partners. In the framework of the EARTH project DENA can provide scientific and administrative information on the most appropriate structure and framework of newly developed biomass training courses. The DENA may also be involved as co-funding body for the implementation of training courses. DEPV e.V. The DEPV (Deutscher Energie-Pellet-Verband) was founded in 2001. It represents the interests of firms, which are producing and trading pellets, pellet heaters and pellet machines. Organizations, associations and private persons interested in the promotion of pellets are members of the DEPV. Cooperation with the DEPV may provide excellent know-how, especially about the production and use of pellets. Staff of the DEPV may lecture themes concerning pellets and the DEPV may also help to promote biomass training courses. DGS e.V. The DGS (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Sonnenenergie) is a non-profit solar organization founded in 1975 (as a German section of ISES – International Solar Energy Society). With almost 3,000 members it is the largest solar organization in Germany. It is organized in regional sections with own responsibility for activities. Professional training is one of DGS’s main tasks. The DGS has a committee for education and training, which is deeply involved in a variety of training activities such as standardization of solar training courses. The DGS co-operates with the BDE e.V. (Bund der Energieverbraucher e.V.), an association of energy consumers. Members of the DGS are architects, installers, engineers, scientists, building owners, enterprises and institutions involved in solar energy. As biomass energy gets more and more popular in Germany, the DGS published a handbook on biomass energy installations in 2004 (DGS-Leitfaden: Planung und Installation von Biomasseanlagen). This information will be used for the creation of training material within the EARTH project, which may be reviewed by the DGS staff. The DGS may also provide competent lecturers. Additionally, the DGS can assist in the dissemination of biomass training courses, via the Internet and its magazine “Sonnenenergie”, which is published every second month and reaches a large number of interested persons. Finally, the DGS can establish the link with existing courses and 41 training frameworks for other renewable energy sources such as PV, SWH (solar water heating) and heat pumps. FNR e.V. The agency of renewable resources FNR (Fachagentur für Nachwachsende Rohstoffe) was initiated in 1993 by the Federal Ministry of Nourishment, Agriculture and Forestry (BML; since 2001 BMVEL) in order to support research and development in the subject area of renewable resources. Besides professional consultation and financial support, the FNR takes part in scientific events, disseminates recent research results of research to the public and informs about the whole range of applications of renewable biomass resources. Currently, the FNR is engaged in the development of a biomass installer training course in cooperation with the ZVSHK (Zentralverband für Sanitär-, Heizung- und Klimatechnik). This initiative is in its early stages and close links have already been established with WIP. A cooperation with the ZVSHK (Zentralfachverband Sanitär, Heizung, Klima) and the FNR on the development of a new biomass training course is among the most promising options for the implementation of the EARTH biomass pilot course in Germany. Idee e.V. Founded in 2003, the Information and Demonstration Centre of Renewable Energies, Idee e.V. (Informations- und Demonstrationszentrum Erneuerbare Energien), was established to support the introduction of efficient techniques focussing on energy efficiency and the use of renewable resources. Thereby, important aims are the utilization of wood as energy resource and the knowledge transfer to schools. Idee created and organizes the information and demonstration centre of renewable energies in Oslberg, North Rhine Westphalia. Visitors of this centre get information about energy efficiency and the use of renewable energies. Idee is mainly focussing on public relations, consumer counselling, network management and advanced training. Idee provides know-how about biomass, especially on the regional scale of Olsberg. The information and demonstration centre may be a suitable venue for the realization of training courses the region of North Rhine Westphalia. 3.3 Manufacturers Manufacturers are generally very important partners for the EARTH project. They have first-hand information on state-of-the-art technology, current technical problems and future technical development. As their aim is highest consumer satisfaction, manufacturers are interested in good education of the installers. Several manufacturers already offer special training courses focussing on their specific heating system equipment. In a variety of interviews the manufacturers have proved to be very helpful and interested in a close cooperation with the EARTH project. Manufacturers may organize, in cooperation with the EARTH project, the practical part of the biomass training course. 42 Fröling Fröling GesmbH, an Austrian company, produces heating technologies since over 40 years. Environmental issues have always been prime elements of the Fröling corporate philosophy. Fröling technologies are heating systems with solid biomass, namely pellets, chips and logs for single households and for grid-connected systems. Fröling offers training courses for the installation of biomass boilers very frequently. The courses usually take place in the company owned training centre in Grieskirchen in Austria. By request Fröling would carry out courses also in Germany. Guntamatic Guntamatic Heiztechnik GmbH was founded in 1963. It is located in Peuerbach in Austria and has many contact persons in whole Europe who are acting as dealers and advisors. In its history Guntamatic concentrated its production on heating with solid fuels, particularly chips, logs and pellets. Guntamatic is very committed to the education of installers. It offers approximately 300 training events per year, mainly in Austria. Hargassner Hargassner GesmbH was founded 20 years ago by Anton Hargassner in Weng, Austria. It produces chips and pellet boilers with a capacity between 12 and 100 kW. Hargassner exports its products via agencies to Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy and Canada and the company’s export turn-over rate is more than 50 %. Hargassner trains each year between 150 and 200 installers. The courses are specific to their products and usually take place in Weng, Austria. HDG-Bavaria HDG Bavaria GmbH is a Bavarian family owned SME situated in Massing in Lower Bavaria. Its history reaches back to 1922. Today, its assortment concentrates on environmentally friendly heating systems fuelled with biomass such as boilers for pellets, chips and logs. At its training centre in Massing, Bavaria, HDG Bavaria offers about ten biomass seminars per year. In one-day seminars a general introduction into the heating systems of HDG Bavaria is given (Partner-Schulung). Additionally, in two-days seminars a deepened technical knowledge is taught (Technik-Schulung). Some employees of HDG Bavaria participated in biomass training courses in Austria by the Austrian Biomass Association some years ago. As a regional partner in Bavaria, HDG Bavaria is a very cooperative and important partner for the realization of the pilot course and working contacts have already been established. A representative of WIP attended the HDG seminar. Hoval Hoval GmbH is an international company that offers a range of systems for heat generation and storage for the energy carriers oil, gas, biomass and for heat pumps and solar energy in the power range of a few kilowatts to several megawatts. The roots of the company reach back to 1932 and the German section of Hoval was founded in 1979. 43 Hoval is very active in the training for installers. Since today, over 7500 persons attended seminars by Hoval. These seminars include product specific training seminars for all products, which are offered by Hoval. So, also biomass training courses are part of the training programme. Ökofen ÖkoFEN Forschungs- und Entwicklungs GesmbH was founded in 1989. The company has two offices in Austria, one in Germany and several agencies in other European countries. Ökofen works on research and development of small ecological biomass heating systems. Its primary objective has been to develop and distribute innovative heating systems using biomass as fuel for comfortable heating in one- and two-family homes. In 1994 Ökofen started with the development of fully automatic heating systems using pellets as fuel. Ökofen has four training centres in Germany: Reichertshofen, Hagen, Berlin and Handewitt. In these centres Ökofen offers 40 to 50 seminars per year. They are divided into three different courses, which last one or two days each: basic seminar, practical seminar and sales seminar. According to Ökofen, the seminars are visited well, but it is always difficult to motivate installers. Paradigma Paradigma Energie- und Umwelttechnik GmbH & Co. KG was founded in 1989 by the owners of the chocolate company Alfred Ritter (Ritter Sport) with the special purpose to distribute ecological heating systems. The production assortment includes solar collectors, efficient gas heaters, and wood boilers. Since 2000 Paradigma offers a completely regenerative heating system, a combination of pellet boiler and solar collector. Today, Paradigma has two production sites, one in Germany, the other in Italy and is represented nationwide by partner companies. Paradigma offers biomass courses for installers and architects nearly every week. These courses usually last three days and are divided into basic and advanced courses. Due to the very high demand for its courses, Paradigma currently has no capacity to continue the organisation of courses on special themes. Rennergy Rennergy Systems AG is a regional company (southern Germany), situated in Buchenberg in the region of Allgäu. Since more than 15 years, it deals with renewable environmental techniques like solar systems, storage and regulation techniques as well as logs, chips and pellet boilers. Rennergy offers biomass training courses irregularly and seasonally. Most courses are offered in spring when installers are less engaged in their business activities. Solvis Solvis GmbH & Co KG was founded in 1982 and is situated in Braunschweig. The product assortment, which is offered by Solvis, includes PV units, pellet boilers, solar collectors and components for renewable energy units. 44 Solvis offers about ten training courses for installers per year. In these three-day courses installers are trained in the installation of all Solvis products including pellet heating systems. Wagner & Co The foundation of Wagner & Co was triggered by the 1970ies ecology and anti nuclear movement in Germany. Today, Wagner & Co Solartechnik is one of the leading companies in the field of solar technology in Germany. Its production sites are Völbe and Kirchhain. Besides different solar products Wagner & Co also offers pellet heaters. Wagner & Co offers a large variety of seminars, but mainly in the field of direct solar energies. Approximately 4-6 pellet training courses are offered every year. Windhager Windhager Zentralheizung GmbH is an Austrian company with production sites in Austria, Switzerland and Germany. From these sites Windhager supplies the whole Europe with central heaters for oil, gas and solid fuels like pellets and logs. In the field of biomass heating systems Windhager offers a number of training courses for installers. Courses are either at the production sites or on the occasion of bio-energy trade fares and other biomass events. Contents of the training courses are variable and include theoretical and practical subject matters. 3.4 Other actors – training providers In this chapter training providers and other actors with relevance to the EARTH project are presented. Artefact GmbH Artefact is a non-profit organization dedicated to the application and dissemination of economically viable, ecologically and socially appropriate technologies for regionally and internationally sound and sustainable development. The Centre for Appropriate Technology and International Development Cooperation maintains a seminar and conference building erected with innovative architecture from three continents, the use of local resources for energy efficient and healthy construction techniques and with its own power generation: solar energy, wind power and biomass guarantee electricity surplus throughout the year. Artefact is already involved in solar training, but biomass training courses are not yet part of the programme. As a regional training provider, Artefact is interested in cooperation with the EARTH project. It is a cooperation partner for the organization and realization of biomass courses in the region of northern Germany and around the Baltic Sea. It may provide training locations and lecturers. Artefact may also promote courses and contact course participants in the region of the Baltic Sea. BZS The education centre for solar techniques in Munich BZS (Bildungszentrum für Solartechnik der Landeshauptstadt München) offers training courses to obtain the title “Solarteur®”. This qualification is recognized in Europe and accredited by ISPQ. The training focus is on solar heating, photovoltaic, wind energy and groundwater heating pumps. Biomass competencies are not yet part of this education. 45 Mr. Kirchensteiner, representative of the BZS and contact person for the Solateur ® training course proposed to integrate biomass training in the Solarteur® education. Close working contacts and informal meetings between WIP and the BZS already have been established. EZA! EZA! (Energie- & Umweltzentrum Allgäu gGmbH) is a non-profit organisation that supports renewable energies and energy efficiency. It offers information, energy consulting and advanced trainings for consumers, specialists and communities. EZA! is supported by communities, companies and institutions of the region of Allgäu. Since many years EZA! offers a recognized training course for energy consultants (Energieberater) and the large portfolio of training activities also includes biomass training courses. Therefore, EZA! is an important partner for the EARTH project and may be a regional contact partner for training courses in the region of Allgäu. Odenwaldakademie / rEnergO The Odenwald-Akademie is a consortium project of the Technical University Darmstadt (TUD), the Industrial and Trade Chamber Darmstadt (IHK) and the Odenwald Circle (Odenwaldkreis). The Odenwaldakademie offers advanced training programmes and information on high-level professional and career development. The association for production and consumption of renewable energies, rEnergO (Gesellschaft zur Förderung, Gewinnung und Nutzung Regenerativer Energien GmbH), was founded in 2002. It is supported by the Technical University Darmstadt with 14 professors working in the field of biomass utilization and their practical applications. REnergO and the Odenwaldakademie will develop a competence centre for biomass technologies in the region of the Odenwald. Currently, the Odenwaldakademie offers various biomass course modules for farmers, installers, craftsmen and interested citizens. With its training experience the Odenwaldakademie is a valuable partner for the EARTH project. It also provides contacts to local organizations and to installers of the region. In the region of the Odenwald, rEnergO may be a partner for implementing biomass courses. Solid The Non-Profit Solar Information and Demonstration Centre, Solid (gemeinnütziges Solarenergie Informations- und Demonstrationszentrum), is an information and demonstration centre in Fürth (Bavaria). It was founded in 1991 by the towns of Nürnberg, Fürth, Erlangen and Schwabach and by the Industrial and Trade Chamber Nürnberg (IHK) und the Chamber of Skilled Crafts Mittelfranken (HWK). Solid is focussing on direct solar energy (PV and solar heating), but it is also interested in other renewable energies like biomass. Solid organized a seminar “heating with pellets and solar energy in single houses and multiple family dwellings”. Solid may be a good partner for biomass courses in the region of Fürth and it can provide a suitable venue for training courses. Solid has close contacts with installers and may promote biomass courses in the region. 46 Target GmbH Target, founded in 1994, is a private service oriented company based in Hannover. It is active in the fields of training, communications, project development and networking with focus on renewable energies, energy efficiency and resource management. Target offers experience with training in the fields of solar thermal, photovoltaic, biomass and energy efficient housing technologies carried out by a team of experienced trainers. Target regularly offers biomass training courses. With its experience, knowhow and contact to competent lecturers Target is an important partner for the EARTH project. TFZ The competence centre for renewable resources TFZ (Technologie- und Förderzentrum im Kompetenzzentrum für Nachwachsende Rohstoffe) is an institution which is directly associated with the Bavarian Ministry for Agriculture and Forestry located in Straubing in Bavaria. The objective of TFZ is the promotion of renewable energies (energy crops, residues and recycling material from agriculture) by applied research, knowledge transfer and co-funding of projects. The TFZ regularly offers biomass heating seminars (Wärmegewinnung aus Biomasse) for the publicity, farmers and installers (weekly in the winter period and monthly in the summer period). Information about the seminar contents can be obtained from the detailed handbook for small-scale biomass heating systems (Handbuch BioenergieKleinanlagen). This handbook provides material for the TFZ seminar and it will be used for the creation of training material within the EARTH project. The TFZ also maintains an exhibition centre with more than 100 exhibits (mainly combustion units), offered by 50 different manufacturers. The seminar and guided tour through the exhibition lasts three hours and was attended by representatives of WIP. In the framework of the EARTH project lecturers may be identified and a suitable venue for training courses may be provided by the TFZ. ZAE Bayern The Bavarian Centre for Applied Energy Research, ZAE Bayern (Bayerisches Zentrum für Angewandte Energieforschung e.V.), is committed to applied research in the fields of the rational use of new energy, renewable energies, as well as the development of new means and techniques to save energy. ZAE Bayern provides know-how and research capacity to develop innovative, economically and ecologically favourable products and processes. ZAE Bayern intensively cooperates with industrial partners. The ZAE is organized as a non-profit association running the research institute with four divisions. The institute collaborates closely with the universities in Würzburg, Erlangen and Munich, from which it has been outsourced in 1991. In August 2004 the ZAE Bayern organized a sequence of ten biomass courses for installers and planners, financed by the DBU (Deutsche Bundesumweltstiftung). The title of this seminar was “Wärme aus Holz – Ein Fachseminar für Heizungsbauer und Fachplaner” (heat from wood – a seminar for installers and planners). Cooperation links with the ZAE Bayern in the framework of the EARTH project have already been established. The training material of above mentioned course has been made available and presents a suitable basis for the development of the EARTH 47 courses. Lecturers may be identified and the training material of the EARTH project may be reviewed by specialists of the ZAE Bayern. ZebiO Zebio, the centre for bio-energy in Oberberg (Zentrum für biogene Energie Oberberg), was initiated by seven regional firms and institutions. It is supported by the ‘Landesinitiative Zukunftsenergien NRW’. The intention of Zebio is to inform about the energetic utilization of biomass. Another goal is the regional exchange of information between biomass producers and consumers. This will contribute to an increased utilization of biomass energy in the region of Oberberg. In 2004 the association Zebio e.V. was founded to support Zebio and to promote their activities. In autumn 2004 a biomass training course for installers and chimneysweepers was organized by Zebio. As further courses are planned, first on a local level and then also on a regional level, the first course was very well received and the demand for such courses is large. As a second regional organization in North Rhine Westphalia besides Idee, Zebio is a potential partner for biomass courses. It may help to identify lecturers and training venues. 48 Earth WP1- Germany Biomass 3.5 List of biomass seminars Training provider Topic Duration 2 days Frequency 2nd time (April 2005) Target groups Trainees in the field of renewable energies Costs Contact Mr. Bühler www.jobmesse-ee.de Mr. Sambale www.eza-allgaeu.de Mr. Huprich www.froeling.de Mr. Huemer www.guntamatic.de Mr. Hofer www.hargassner.at Mr. Ecker www.hdg-bavaria.de Mr. Jäck www.holzkompetenzzentrum.de Address Wissenschaftsladen Bonn 0228 / 20161-25 Burgstraße 26 87435 Kempten 08031 / 960286-20 Hoffnungsthaler Str. 41 51491 Overath 02204 / 720 – 0 Bruck 7 A-4722 Peuerbach 0043 / 7276 / 2441-0 Anton Hargassnerstr. 1 A-4952 Weng 0043 / 7723 – 5274 Siemensstraße 6 / 22 84323 Massing 08724 / 8970 Römerplatz 8 – 10 53947 Nettersheim 02486 / 801260 BMU Bundesministerium Bundesweite Job- und Bildungsmesse für Umwelt, Naturschutz Erneuerbare Energien und Reaktorsicherheit EZA! (Energie- & Umweltzentrum Allgäu) Energy consultant / Biomass training courses Different courses for training with biomass boilers Different courses for training with biomass boilers Different courses for training with biomass boilers Fröling very frequently installers Guntamatic very frequently Frequently (150200 installer per year) 8h frequently installers, chimneysweepers Hargassner installers installers, engineers, chimneysweepers installers, private persons HDG-Bavaria “Partners-school for installers” free Holzkompetenzzentrum Rheinland “Wood – fuel with future – seminar for installers” 3h only once (2004) 5€ Training provider Hoval Topic Different seminars with different topics about biomass Duration 6-7h per unit Frequency Target groups installers Costs Course dependent Contact Mr. Geyerhofer www.hoval.de Address Karl- Hammerschmidt – Str. 45 85609 Aschheim – Dornach 089 / 9220970 Mühlgasse 9 A-4132 Lembach i. M. 0043 / (0) 72 86 / 74 50 Marktplatz 9 (Schloss) 64711 Erbach very frequently Ökofen “Pellet-Academy” Different courses (modules) for biomasstraining 2 days regularly installers farmer, installers, craftsmen, citizens free Mr. Garstel www.oekofen.de Mrs. Thomae www.odenwaldakademie.de Odenwaldakademie different regularly 25 € / 60 € 49 Earth WP1- Germany Biomass 06062 / 9420 – 70 Paradigma “Palletti-Schulungen” different very frequently installers, planners, architects free Mrs. Wunschel www.paradigma.de Mr. Greiter www.rennergy.de Mr. Müller www.ssh-innung-muenchen.de Ettlinger Str. 30 76307 Karlsbad 07202 / 922 – 0 Einöde 50 87474 Buchenberg 08378 / 9236-0 Gabrielenstraße 3 80636 München 089 / 121589-0 Rennergy „Product training“ 7h irregularly installers free SSH guild of Munich Biomass training course (planned) installers Training provider Solid Topic “Heating with pellets and solar energy in single houses and houses for more families” Training courses for Solvis products (including pellet boilers) Duration 6h Frequency regularly Target groups installers Costs 90 € Contact Mr. Wolf www.solid.de Mrs. Schobelt www.solvis.de Mr. Reisinger www.tfz.bayern.de Mr. Steege http://targetgmbh.de Address Heinrich-Stranka-Str. 3-5 90765 Fürth 0911 / 810 270 Grotrian-Steinwegstr. 12 38112 Braunschweig 0531 / 28904-0 Schulgasse 18 94315 Straubing 09421 / 300-210 An der Markuskirche 1 30163 Hannover 0511 / 90 96 88-30 Graf-Recke-Str. 84 40239 Düsseldorf 0211 / 62 14-0 Zimmermannstr. 12 35091 Cölbe 06421 / 8007 – 0 Deutzring 2 86405 Meitingen 08271 / 8056-0 Solvis GmbH & Co KG TFZ (TechnologieFörderzentrum Straubing) Target 3 days regularly (10 / year) installers free “Wärmegewinnung aus Biomasse” “Heating with wood, techniques, planning and installation of modern heaters with solid fuels” “State-of-the-art of burning techniques for wood, biomass and pellets” Training courses for biomass installers, Road shows Different courses for training with biomass boilers 3h weekly / monthly publicity, farmers, installers free 3h regularly installers decision maker in the field of energies, engineers 25 € VDI (Verein deutscher Ingenieure) > 295 € www.vdi.de Wagner & Co 9h 4 / yr installers 100 € Mr. Rambow www.wagner-solartechnik.de Mr. Geisler www.windhager.com Windhager regularly installers 50 Earth WP1- Germany Biomass Training provider ZAE (Bayerisches Zentrum für angewandte Energieforschung e.V.) Zentralverband deutscher Schornsteinfeger e.V. Landesverband NRW, Bezirk Köln Zebio (Zentrum für Biogene Energie Obernberg) Topic “Heat from wood – A seminar for installers and planners” Duration 3 days Frequency 10 x (2003-2004) 12 times (2003) for all chsweepers in the ‘Bezirk Köln’ once, further courses are planned Target groups installers, engineers, chimneysweepers Costs Contact Mr. Gaderer www.zae-bayern.de Address Walther Meißner Str. 6 85748 Garching 089 / 356250-27 Salmstr. 39 51105 Köln 0221 / 8307543 Busenstraße 5 51647 Gummersbach 02261 / 8141-44 “Pellet-seminar” 1 day chimneysweepers Mr. Gramm www.zds-nrw.de “Seminar for installers and chimneysweepers: comfortably heating with wood” 3-4 h installers, chimneysweepers 5€ Mrs. Schulte www.zebio.de 51 3.6 List of potential lecturers - contacts The list below includes potential lecturers for the pilot biomass training course in Germany within the EARTH project. Name Bröckenland Ruth Dobelmann Kai Ecker Martin Gaderer Matthias Gräbel Roland Gramm Frank Hansen Hermann Janssen Rainer Kirchsteiner Willy Krauß Willi Langer Edmund Müller Robert Pummer Hermann Reisinger, Klaus Reuß Manfred Rührig Astrid Rutz Dominik Siegmund Thomas Institution Carmen e.V. DGS HDG-Bavaria ZAE Bayern Referat für Gesundheit und Umwelt, Stadt München ZDS LV NRW (Köln) Chimney FNR WIP-Munich BZS Bildungszentrum Solartechnik Forum Solarmarketing Carmen e.V. SSH guild Munich Austrian Biomass Association TFZ ZAE Bayern National SHK confederation WIP-Munich BBE Introduction, energy situation, ecology Biomass heating Energy situation Biomass heating Energy situation, marketing Introduction, energy situation Subject Subsidies Energy situation, biomass Biomass boiler Biomass heating Contact www.carmen-ev.de 09421 / 960357 www.dgs.de 089 / 52 4071 www.hdg-bavaria.de 08724 / 897-85 www.zae-bayern.de 089 / 356250-27 www.muenchen.de/rgu 089 / 233-96300 www.zds-nrw.de 0221 / 8307543 www.fnr.de 03843 / 6930116 www.wip-munich.de 089 / 72012773 www.bzs-solar.musin.de 089 / 233-34408 www.forum-solarmarketing.de 09826 / 61116 www.carmen-ev.de 09421 / 960357 www.ssh-innung-muenchen.de 089 / 121589-0 www.biomasseverband.at +43 (0) 15330797 www.tfz.bayern.de 09421 / 300-210 www.zae-bayern.de 089 / 356250-30 www.fvshk-bayern.de 089 / 546157-0 www.wip-munich.de 089 / 72012773 www.bioenergie.de 0228/ 81 98-140 Name Institution Subject Contact 52 Steiglechner Johannes Strehler Arno Vohs Manfred Wazula Herbert TÜV Süddeutschland TU-Munich, LfL ZVSHK Bavarian guild of chimneysweepers Certification Solid bio-fuels www.tuev-sued.de 089 / 51901008 www.lfl.bayern.de 09421/300-110 www.zentralverband-shk.de 02241 / 9299-0 Chimneys, biomassstorage www.bayerischeskaminkehrerhandwerk.de 089 / 54413914 4. Summary of discussions with training bodies A summary of discussion with training bodies is presented in this final chapter. For the elaboration of the WP1 report, WIP established contacts and discussed with partners by telephone and in informal meetings. The WP 1 report was reviewed by several external biomass training experts. Additionally, representatives of WIP attended biomass training courses (Biowärme-Installateur seminar; HDG-Bavaria seminar) and lectures (TFZ lecture and exhibition). The detailed contents of two biomass seminars are demonstrated below as good examples for the EARTH project. 4.1 Curricula of important biomass seminars Existing biomass training courses provide guidelines for the EARTH project. With the experience of former courses and the benchmarking of these courses new courses can be established under the EARTH project in several European countries. The following chapters briefly present biomass training courses implemented in Germany and Austria during the last years. ZAE Bayern Seminar In 2003/2004 the ZAE Bayern (Bayerisches Zentrum für Angewandte Energieforschung e.V. ) organized a sequence of ten seminars for biomass-heating installers and planners. The title of this seminar was “Wärme aus Holz – Ein Fachseminar für Heizungsbauer und Fachplaner” (heat from wood – a seminar for installers and planners). It was carried out in cooperation with following partners: • • • • • • TÜV-Südbayern Landesinnungsverband des Bayerischen Kaminkehrerhandwerks (Guild of chimneysweepers) SHK (Sanitär-Heizung-Klima)-Innung Bayern (Guild of sanitary, heating and air conditioning) Landtechnik Weihenstephan Carmen e.V. Producers of boilers and biomass fuel 53 Target groups of the courses organized by the ZAE Bayern were heating engineers, chimneysweepers, installation personnel, planners and developers, and energy consulting personnel. The courses were three-day seminars and included theoretical lectures for two days and a practical day, which was carried out at different manufacturers. The content of the theoretical part is shown below. The existing training material will serve as guideline for the courses implemented within the EARTH project. Close working contacts have already been established between WIP and the ZAE Bayern. Based on the ZAE Bayern training material, the SHK-guild in Munich is currently elaborating a course, which will be included in their extended training programme. 1. Introduction 2. Energy consumption, resources, environmental problems Content: Need for the use of renewable energies; Energy demand and supply data for Bavaria and Germany; Potential of available biomass resources; Fossil resources; Carbon cycle, Greenhouse effect; Climate change and global warming; CO2 concentration in the atmosphere; Anthropogenic CO2 sources 3. Solid bio-fuels Content: Biomass life-cycle; Bark; Industrial chips, Waste wood; Chipping; Logs; Chips of forestry; Pellets; Agricultural resources; Wood composition; Water content and humidity; Heat value; Wood density; Ash composition 4. Laws, permissions and marginal emission values of solid bio-fuels Content: Permission obligations; Marginal emission values; Regulations; CE-label (CE = Communautés Européennes); Definition of biomass 5. Storage and transport techniques of chips and pellets Content: Regulations for storage rooms; Guidelines and examples for storing chips and pellets; Dimensioning of the storage and the heating room; Pellet silos; Soundproofing; Feeding systems (feather arm; vacuum suction system; auger delivery system); Preconditions for the filling of pellets; Advantages of pellets; Safety regulations and maintenance 6. Official requirements for rooms, air duct and exhaust duct Content: Results of solid fuel measurements; Permission obligations; Regulations for exhaust installations, multiple exhaust allocations, boiler installations, ventilation, and fuel storage; Bavarian building and firing regulations; Defects and disturbances of firing systems 7. Combustion techniques Content: Combustion process; Air surplus, lambda, air number; Emission process; Solid pollutants; Ash composition; Combustion regularization; Dew point of smoke gazes; Emissions; Heating balance; Boiler efficiency 8. Firing techniques - boiler techniques Content: Boiler techniques for logs, chips and pellets; Traditional constructions; Modern log boilers; Characters of good firing; Combustion regulations, Boiler effectiveness; Safety installations (return lifting, safety heat exchanger); Heating and 54 storage rooms for log, pellet and chips; Buffer storage; Security and maintenance works 9. Certification and security check for biomass boilers Content: Essentially and voluntary labelling of boilers; The Ü-label; The CE-label; Examples of voluntary labels; Relevant norms; DIN EN 303-5-boilers for solid fuels 10. Hydraulic integration Content: Return flow rise; Safety heat exchanger; Buffer storage; Hydraulic circles; Thermal isolation; Solar integration; Filling of the buffer storage 11. Solar integration Content: Assessment of warm water and heating demand; Solar systems and their components; Hydraulic circles with solar collectors; Solar heat storage; Heat transfer; Thermal isolation; Dimensioning of solar constructions and storages 12. Small local heat grids Content: Examples of small local heat grids; Economical frameworks; Supplier models; Components and functioning of heating grids; Local heat grids with storage integration; Planning of local heat grids; Solar integration with seasonal hybrid storage 13. Subsidies Content: National subsidization programs; Cash grants and credit benefits; Subsidization programs of the different federal states 14. Costs 15. Motivation and sale arguments Biomass seminar - Austrian Biomass Association The well-established biomass seminar, offered by the Austrian Biomass Association, is the most renowned biomass training in Europe. Cooperation partners are the National Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, Environment and Water Resources Management (Bundesministerium für Land- und Forstwirtschaft, Umwelt und Wasserwirtschaft; Lebensministerium), the national guilds of heating, sanitary and air conditioning (Bundesinnungen der Heizung-, Sanitär- und Lüftungstechniker) and the national guilds of chimneysweepers (Bundesinnungen der Rauchfangkehrer). Two different seminars exist for the target groups bio-heat installers and chimneysweepers. They include theoretical lectures for two days and a practical day, which is carried out at manufacturers. After the three-day course certificates are granted to the participants at an official ceremony, which allows them to use the label “Biowärme-Installateur” (bio-heat installer) or “Biowärme-Rauchfangkehrer” (bio-heat chimneysweeper). Four to five primary courses are offered each year for about 10 to 30 participants. The seminar fees are 255 €. Those who have already attended this primary seminar, are able to attend advanced training courses after two years. Two representatives of the EARTH partner WIP attended a seminar for bio-heat installers in Innsbruck, Austria, on 24-25 February 2005. It is recommended to use this existing biomass course as reference for the EARTH training courses to be developed in several European countries. 55 Structure and content of the theoretical part of the seminar is similar for the two target groups: 1. Market situation for biomass Content: Ecological situation; Climate politics and Austrian obligations; Fossil energy resources; Nuclear energy; Renewable energy; Modern wood heaters; Arguments for biomass 2. Woody fuel Content: Biomass from the forest; Wood pellets; Logistics and storage; Biomass supplier 3. Federal building laws Content: Planning and building laws; Authorization process; Construction and building requirements; Austrian and EU building guidelines 4. Subsidies Content: Subsidization programs of the different federal states; National subsidization programmes 5. Chimney requirements, fire prevention Content: Exhaust duct; Chimneys; Fire prevention 6. Combustion techniques, frameworks Content: Basics about combustion techniques; Official frameworks; Type tests; Efficiency; Emissions 7. Firing systems Content: Pellet firing; Chips firing; Logs firing 8. Hydraulics Content: Basics about hydraulics; Integration of biomass installations and practical examples, Integration of solar technologies 9. Cost and profitability comparison Content: Comparison of costs of energy source; Comparison of investment costs; Comparison of running costs 4.2 Review of the biomass training situation in Germany In the vocational training of the German educational system no explicit biomass competencies are yet part of the official training programmes (Ausbildung). Lessons on biomass may be offered in exceptional cases, but only on a supplementary and voluntary basis. Only when there is a sufficiently large number of enterprises, which have experience with biomass systems to be passed to the apprentices, a special biomass programme could be introduced into the “dual system”. The integration of biomass competencies as a part of the “Ausbildung” is a long-term aim to support the development of renewable energies. For the time being, in Germany biomass competencies are only covered by courses in the advanced training sector. Mainly private organisations and manufacturers implement biomass training courses in Germany. One of the most successful course was initiated by the ZAE Bayern 56 (Bayerisches Zentrum für Angewandte Energieforschung e.V.), which in 2003/2004 realized a series of ten biomass training courses with a duration of three days each. These courses were implemented in the framework of a project funded by the DBU (Deutsche Bundesumweltstiftung) and was not continued after the end of this project. Within the EARTH project working contacts between WIP and the ZAE Bayern have already been established. Also other organisations have initiated biomass training courses in Germany (e.g. Target, Odenwaldakademie, Solid, Zebio), but courses have not yet been established. These courses are offered locally or regionally and links between courses do not exist. So far, in Germany mainly manufacturers implement biomass training courses (e.g. HDG-Bavaria, Paradigma, Rennergy, Wagner & Co). They are interested in and depend on consumer satisfaction and confidence. This is important for their image and thus for the promotion of their products. In order to ensure high quality installations, their products (e.g. biomass boilers) have to be installed correctly. In addition to their product-specific training courses, all producers, which were contacted by WIP, are highly interested in the development of accredited biomass training courses. As consumers are interested in good, functioning and high quality products, it is useful for them to identify skilled biomass system installers. This is possible via the introduction of accredited courses and certificates for installers. Neither accredited courses nor certificates exist at the moment in Germany. An accreditation of training providers (e.g. by ISPQ) and the introduction of certified biomass installer diploma would therefore contribute to a higher consumer satisfaction. Thus, there is an urgent need to establish the framework for biomass training courses, which are accredited and recommended on a national level. Important partners to achieve this are the organizations of the skilled crafts, such as the chambers of skilled crafts (Handwerkskammern) or the confederations of skilled crafts (Fachverbände), which are very interested in creating such courses. Thereby, especially the guilds of sanitary, heating and air conditioning (SHK) are important partners and close contacts between the ZVSHK and WIP have already been established. Furthermore it is essential to strengthen the capacities at local and regional levels and to create links between the already existing biomass training courses. 4.3 Outlook In the framework of the EARTH project, two possible strategies for the implementation of biomass training courses in Germany have been identified. The first strategy is based on the regional level. Initially, regional partners will be involved in the development of a biomass pilot course. Close working contacts between WIP and partners in the region of Bavaria have been established. Informal meetings with the SHK-guild of Munich and the municipality already took place. It is planned, that the regional partners continue the biomass training courses after the implementation of the pilot training course. Subsequently, the courses should be extended to the national level, which is the final aim of this strategy. The main advantage of this “bottom-up” strategy is, that the initial course series is easily manageable. The courses can be improved and modified easily, so that it is guaranteed that the interests of installers and consumers are satisfied. The second strategy is initiated on the national level. Training material and pilot courses will be developed in corporation with the confederations of the skilled crafts (SHK, chimneysweepers). Close working contacts have been already established between WIP, 57 the ZVSHK (Zentralverband für Sanitär-, Heizung- und Klimatechnik; Mr. Vohs, Mr. Göbel) the ZDS (Zentralverband Deutscher Schornsteinfeger; Mr. Thümmrich) and the FNR (Fachagentur für Nachwachsende Rohstoffe; Mr. Hansen). Advantage of this “topdown” strategy is, that after the implementation of the pilot course, further courses can be promoted very easily, as organisations on the national level are involved. Also an official accreditation as well as a certification for installers will be achieved much faster and easier by this strategy. For the implementation of biomass training courses in Germany both approaches will be pursued. Initially the pilot course may be implemented regionally, but in cooperation with all partners on regional as well as on national level. Then, with the experience of these primary courses, nation-wide biomass training courses can be introduced and promoted. Acknowledgements WIP would like to thank a variety of biomass training experts from industry, associations and training providers for their information and advice, which was very valuable for the creation of this report on biomass training in Germany. Namely, WIP highly acknowledges contributions and support by Matthias Gaderer (ZAE Bayern), Klaus Reisinger (TFZ), Andreas Steege (target), Manfred Vohs (ZVSHK), Hermann Hansen (FNR), Robert Müller (SHK-guild Munich) and Hermann Pummer (Österreichischer Biomasseverband). 58 Title: Biomass, Greece Organization: CRES 1. Training infrastructures and programmes 1.1 Technical and vocational education in Greece Introduction Technical and vocational education and/or training is within the competence of both the Ministry of National Education and Religious Affairs (YPEPTH), through the Greek National Vocational Education and Training System (established by Law 2009/ 1992), and the Manpower Employment Organisation (OAED), a body under the auspices of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Vocational Training in Greece is provided with the following forms: a. The Formal Vocational Education and Training, which can be defined as the first cycle of basic training/specialization that provides basic knowledge and prowess for preparing the entrants to the labour market. It includes the following types of training structures: 1. Apprenticeship and Technical-Vocational Schools (Level 2); 2. Institutes of Vocational Training (Levels 1 and 3), and its target groups are: • young High School graduates, • young who haven’t graduated from high school, • young Lyceum graduates. b. The Continuing Vocational Training, by which the life-long training of the productive human resources is meant. It is addressed to individuals that have low level of expertise and to self-employed for improving their qualifications or changing their jobs, if the previous ones have become obsolete. It is also addressed to the staff of private companies or groups of self-employed in order to upgrade their typical or actual qualifications. The interested groups, through their Unions, show their requirements for further training and define the thematic fields. More specifically, continuing vocational training in Greece includes: 1. programmes for the training of unemployed; 2. in-work training programmes of personnel according to the National Certification System (aimed at increasing productivity of employees and thereby the competitiveness of enterprises); 3. pilot programmes for the training of self-employed who need training or specialization in the new demands of their professions; 59 4. programmes enabling the transition of unemployed people from training to employment; 5. programmes addressed at people facing/endangered with Social Exclusion; 6. programmes in the framework of Social Exclusion; 7. integrated innovative and pilot programmes according to the EU initiatives (pilot programmes for unemployed registered in the Unemployment Live Register and for young people who have been dropped out of the Educational System). It must be also mentioned that the National Certification System of Vocational Training has been established since 1996 by a joint decree of the Minister of National Education and Religious Affairs and the Minister of Finance. The Organisation for Vocational Education & Training (OEEK) organises vocational training certification exams at national level twice a year, with the aid of the Central Examination Committee for the Certification of Vocational Training, in which social partners also participate. Technical Vocational Educational Schools The objective of the technical vocational educational schools (TEEs) is to provide technical and vocational knowledge and to cultivate skills in order to facilitate the young people’s entry into the labour market. Pupils who do not work and who are from 15 years old and over, study in day technical vocational educational schools. Only working people may study in evening schools; they may be up to 50 years old. These schools are classified as secondary non-compulsory education and offer both day and evening classes. TEEs are organized in two independent cycles: • The first education cycle runs for two (2) years with the possibility of extension for the specialties where the Apprenticeship system (2nd cycle) is applicable. • The second cycle runs for one (1) year (2 semesters). The Apprenticeship System combines the theoretical along with practical training (Dual System). For the evening classes, one semester is added for the 1st cycle and one for the 2nd. Graduates of both cycles can receive a profession practicing licence, according to the clauses in force. TEE curricula include lessons of general education, basic vocational lessons, laboratory classes and practical training. Special care is given to the attainment of professional abilities under real working conditions. For that reason, special contracts are made with private and public sector companies where the appropriate working conditions exist. Restructuring of the TEEs’ professional specialties is made according to the needs of the labour market. The vocational education programs are developed according to these needs, and new analytical programs are formulated while new education books for the TEEs are edited. OAED runs a number of apprenticeship schools, called Centres for Technical Vocational Training (KETEK), in which the 4/5 of the 2nd and 3rd years’ programs is dedicated to practicing in appropriately selected private enterprises, in positions relevant to apprentices’ specialisation, and only the rest 1/5 for class lessons. 60 Among the TEEs’ specialties per sector the thermo-hydraulics installation technician one (of the 1st cycle of TEEs’ Mechanical sector) can be distinguished. This is due to the fact that the students that follow this specialty are taught the installation of thermal systems in the frame of the “thermal installations” lesson. TEEs graduates with this specialisation are considered as assistant plumbers. Vocational Training Institutes (IEKs) IEKs were developed to help young people to get expertise in order to enter the labour market or to certify their professional qualifications, providing them the chance to acquire a Vocational Training Diploma. IEKs are not classified in the Typical Educational System. Their programmes include specializations addressed to candidates in the level of Lyceum or to graduates of Technical Vocational Schools of B’ cycle (4 semesters duration). Since 1997 post high school IEKs have also been established (with duration of 2 semesters – IEK Level 1) in order to help adults to secure their job position or to find a new job, if they are unemployed. IEKs that are operated by public bodies (local authorities, etc.) are under the administration and financial supervision of the Organisation for Vocational Education and Training (OEEK), a body formed and administered by the Ministry of National Education and Religious Affairs (YPEPTh). Besides those of the public sector (up to 120), there are 95 more IEKs in Greece running by private bodies and having similar curricula to the public ones. Private IEKs are officially recognized and are subject to frequent inspections as regards the quality of the training provided, the contents of their curricula, their facilities, the qualification of their trainers, etc. IEK’s trainers come from the market place as well as from the higher and secondary education. In order to obtain the Vocational Training Diploma, graduates of public and private Vocational Training Institutes sit for the same exams consisted of both practical and theoretical parts, and compete in common subjects throughout Greece. The Diploma of Secondary Level Vocational Training is recognised not only in Greece but also in the rest of the EU member states (Presidential Decree 231/29-7-98, pursuant to which Directive 92/51/EU was incorporated in the Greek Law). So far, the curricula that have been approved by the Organisation for Vocational Education and Training (OEEK) and are offered by public and private IEKs throughout Greece are 140. Among the available IEK specialties per sector, the most relevant to biomass heating systems is the “Renewable forms of Energy applications technician” one, offered in the frame of the Energy-Environment sector. It was not possible, however, to track any IEK, either public or private, providing nowadays this specialty to interested people. Vocational Training Centres (KEK) Continuing vocational training is provided by the certified by the National Accreditation Centre of Vocational Training Structures & Accompanying Services 61 (EKEPIS) vocational training centres (KEKs), or by the training structures or the human resource development departments of the companies, which organise either individually or in cooperation with certified KEKs programs of in-job training for their employees. KEKs (262 all over Greece) can be of either national or regional range, while each KEK is specialized in specific thematic fields, corresponding to the specialties required. Certified thematic KEKs (national or regional) have the ability to carry out programs of informal continuing vocational training for specialties that belong to at most four of the following thematic fields: 1) Environment skills; 2) Farming skills; 3) Tourism and services skills; 4) Economy & administration skills; 5) Information technology skills; 6) Pedagogic skills; 7) Health and welfare skills; 8) Technical and transportation skills; 9) Culture & sports, mass media skills. Again OAED is an organization that runs KEKs (33 all over the country). Besides OAED some other public bodies, like the district boards for adult education, local authorities, technical, craft and/or commercial chambers and universities, also run KEKs. Moreover some private facilities have been qualified as KEK. 1.2 Professional training infrastructure for installers in Greece Public Institutions Universities and other tertiary and secondary education institutions The Institutions of Higher Education in Greece are legal establishments that operate under Public Law and are fully self-governed. According to the Greek Constitution, higher education is provided exclusively by State Institutions, and the operation of private Higher Education Institutions is not permitted. Higher Education Institutions act under the supervision of the State, are financially supported by it and operate under laws that determine their status. Responsible for programming the educational policies and providing all the financial support to all institutions is the YPEPTh. The tertiary education level institutions in Greece are divided into two types, the Universities (AEIs) and the Technological Education Institutions (TEIs). Universities in most of the cases treat Biomass Systems (or energy from biomass conversion processes in general) related issues as part of a broader course in Renewable Energy Sources (RES), with only a few exceptions (optional courses of the last semesters of the studies treating specific issues of biomass conversion). Their role is not important for installers, since their target groups are under- or post-graduate engineers, mainly Mechanical and Electrical Engineers, or other scientists (e.g. agriculturists, physicists) and the courses offered are basically lectures in the frame of pre- or postdiploma curricula. 62 TEIs are non-university tertiary education institutions that differ from AEIs as regards both their role and orientation, as well as of the subjects and the qualifications they offer. Most of them, such as the TEI of Athens, Piraeus, and the TEIs in other Greek cities that subtend engineering schools, offer in their syllabus courses in RES. For example, in the TEI of Athens, the Faculty of Energy Technique of the School of Technological Applications offers to the students during two semesters the subject of RES. Its contents include theoretical teaching in all topics with extensive laboratory training - 1 laboratory regarding techniques for the production of biogas through biomass (Soft Energy Applications and Environmental Protection Lab). Apart from the already mentioned TEEs and OAED apprenticeship schools, another secondary level vocational training institution in Greece is the Technical and Vocational Teacher Training Institute (SELETE). SELETE offers training to teachers of secondary vocational education. It is divided into two independent schools, namely PATES, a Pedagogical Technical School which students are University and Technical and Vocational Education graduates, and ASETEM, a higher School of Pedagogical & Technical Education offering concurrent pedagogical and technological pre-service education and training to prospective teachers of technical and vocational subjects. A subject taught at the 8th semester of ASETEM’s program is RES, with biomass issues covering part of it. Moreover, programs and seminars of further technological and vocational training in the field are implemented by ASETEM on an in-service basis and are intended for teachers of the Tertiary Education (Mechanical, Electrical, etc. Engineers that are holders of the Diploma of PATES or ASETEM; this Diploma constitutes a prerequisite for appointment to a position of the corresponding discipline), as well as for laboratory and workshop instructors. Chambers of commerce There are various types of such chambers in Greece, organised in a district level. The existing chambers are of: • Commerce and Industry; • Small and Medium Sized Industries; • Tradesmen. Within their scope they organize seminars and training programmes on state of the art subjects aiming at specialization, innovation, the acquisition of best practices and professional skills for their member companies/individuals. Nevertheless, their role is not actually important for installers, and no biomass heating systems related training activity emanating from them was identified. Craft chambers and associations There is a national craft chamber (the Greek General Confederation of Labour GSEE) with many regional offices/delegations. Apart from its activities as regards the collective agreements and the other issues of interest to the workers, GSEE has established a vocational training centre (KEK) consisted of 1 central and 11 regional units, as well as of three departmental units (those of the banking, chemicals and 63 communications sectors). Nevertheless, there is no specific to biomass heating systems seminar offered by the KEK of GSEE until now. Moreover, various craft associations, which are structured either in a district or regional level, also exist in Greece. The most relevant to biomass heating systems installation are the following: • Trade Union of Hydraulics Technicians (OBYE), • Association of Plumbing Installers of heating and air-conditioning projects, • Association of Chartered Installers – Maintainers of burners and liquid and gas fuelled appliances. The main objectives of these associations are the preservation and advancement of the labour, social and union interests of their members, the promotion of fellowship and cooperativeness, etc. between their members. However, no training activity is carried out directly by them, since they do not possess neither the appropriate structures nor the potential to affect decision making (they are ranked as secondary level trade unions). Sometimes, their executives participate with presentations/interventions in events organised by other bodies in their fields of interest. Energy agencies In Greece there is one national energy agency (CRES) and various regional and local energy agencies/offices. In the front line of their objectives/activities are those related to the organisation and implementation of information campaigns, events and training seminars, intended for engineers, technicians (installers, plumbers, electricians, etc.), Local Authorities representatives, policy makers, and the general public. For instance, CRES has organized between 1990 and 1996 a series of training programs in a number of major Greek cities (mainly in rural areas), variable both in duration and content. Some of these training programmes were introducing the issues of biomass and geothermal applications in agriculture for potential end-users, the residents of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace (120 hours duration), the residents of Central Macedonia and Central Greece (4 cycles/120 hours duration per cycle), and for the residents of the Northern Aegean region and of Evia island (3 cycles/100 hours duration per cycle). Apart from them, other programmes presenting the issues of RES and RUE applications and their possibilities in the Agricultural Cooperative Unions, addressed to managers coming from Northern Greece (duration 100 hours), were organised. Other bodies and structures The Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) during the time period 1996-2004 has been highly activated in the issues of environment and environmental protection, mainly through its regional sections at various Greek districts. This has been done by the organisation and implementation of a series of 1-day workshops in major Greek cities (mainly in rural areas), conferences or series of lectures introducing the issues of environmental protection assessment, solid waste management, and more general ones concerning the environment. 64 TEE also operates a KEK, called IEKEM/TEE, which is active in the field of continuing training, especially in energy related topics. However, it must be mentioned that, all the seminars implemented were addressing mainly engineers (the members of TEE), while no seminars treating biomass conversion issues of interest have ever been organized by TEE. ELKEPA, the Hellenic Productivity Centre, was (it suspended activities during 1998) a vocational training centre for engineers, other scientists and technicians in the fields of Management, Information Systems and Technological Applications. The courses offered were of variable duration and detail of information provided, according to the field covered and the professional group they addressed. In the field of RES, a total of 32 seminars took place in Athens during 1986-1993, attended by 598 engineers and technicians. Each seminar had a 200 hours duration from which significant number of hours was devoted to the energy from biomass issue. The structure of these seminars was 50% theoretical and 50% practical, with in-site visits and case studies. Private bodies and other associations The Companies’ Association for Industrial and Vocational Training, founded in 1980, is a non-profit educational organisation aiming at the continuing training of medium-level technical staff of the Federation of Greek Industries member-firms. For this purpose, Centres for Industrial and Vocational Training (IVEPEs) were formed in 1980 in Athens, in 1985 in Thessalonica and in 1987 in Volos. Their goal is to offer services in all the fields of human resources development and satisfy the training and specialisation needs of the personnel of Greek manufacturing industries and other companies of both the public and the private sector with up-to-date, specialised training and retraining programmes for shop-floor staff, technicians and managers. Since 1996, IVEPEs have been accredited and certified by EKEPIS as Informal Continuous Vocational Training Centres of national range in all training fields. Apart from the established technical programmes (e.g. industrial automation – PLC, safety & fire-protection at work, industrial mechanical engineering, welding, hydraulicspneumatic systems and automations, etc.), conducted for more than 150 companies with a total duration exceeding 140.000 teaching hours, IVEPE Centres offer effective training on Information Technology, Management and Total Quality, and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). Nevertheless, no training program in biomass heating systems installation and/or maintenance issues has been implemented up to now by IVEPE. Curricula of important seminars The survey that CRES made regarding the previous or current realization of training courses for installers on the specific issues of the installation of small-scale biomass heating systems (e.g. biomass from “woody” fuels for heating, such as pellets, chips, 65 logs) for residential or small municipal or office buildings use, showed that no specific seminar has ever been implemented in Greece in this field. 2. Needs of target groups 2.1 General The target groups for the EARTH project include training institutions, small scale biomass heating systems installation personnel, plumbers and heating engineers (being the primary target groups), as well as the energy agencies and associations, green financiers and financing bodies, housing and building developers, which are considered as the secondary target groups. Since the manufacturers are deeply interested in the assurance of high quality products for the satisfaction of their customers, the highstandard specialized education of the installers that are working for their company consists an issue of high priority for them. For this reason, the identification of the present situation concerning the training courses that are actually offered to heating installers is of high importance as far as the definition of any bottlenecks and needs for the improvement of the existing schemes is concerned. In order to have a complete idea of the existing situation in Greece, concerning the biomass heating systems technology and installers training status, a brief overview of the biomass market in Greece is provided. 2.2 An overview of the biomass energy status in Greece Biomass potential Renewable energy sources (RES) in general contributed in 2002 by 5.2% or 1.46Mtoe to the Greek Total Primary Energy Supply (CRES, 2002). Of the abovementioned percentage, biomass (mostly wood consumed directly in the domestic/ residential sector) accounted for 67%, or 0.946 Mtoe. Domestic use of wood (burning of wood in open heats for cooking, water and space heating) accounted for about 74% (0.70 Mtoe) of total biomass energy production. The remaining 26% (0.24 Mtoe) was produced by the combustion of wood by-products and agricultural residues, and the utilisation of biogas produced in landfills, agro-food industries and municipal wastewater treatment plants. As an overall estimation, approximately 2370 plants operating on biomass resources have been recorded in Greece (2002). However, the amount of biomass currently used for energy production in Greece is a small percentage considering the available potential in the country, which is quite significant. The diversity of the Greek topography combined with the favourable climatic conditions of the country favour a wide range of agricultural activities. Furthermore, a large number of energy crops have been tested in different soil climatic conditions, and good adaptability and high 66 biomass yields with relatively low inputs (water, fertiliser, etc) have been demonstrated. The main biomass resources in Greece are: Residues from: agriculture in-field; forestry activities (early thinning, final fellings, silvicultural treatments), agriculture processing/agro-industries; by-products from animal husbandry; by-products from forestry. • Energy crops: During the last decades, several energy crops have been tested under Greek climatic conditions. High biomass yields, up to 30odt/ha/year have been observed in experimental trials. However, not any accurate estimation of the technically and economically exploitable biomass potential has been carried out yet. Regarding the agricultural residues, the total agricultural land is about 3.8 million ha, from which 60% is arable land, 25% is cultivated with trees and vines, 3% is garden area and 12% is fallow land. Two large categories of field agricultural residues have been considered: • • annual crop residues that remain in the field after the crops are harvested, such as winter cereals, rice, corn, cotton, tobacco and sugarbeet, and, perennial residues that remain in the field after the pruning of trees and vineyards. From the total agricultural residues produced, a part is exploited and used in several energy and non-energy markets. It is estimated that in overall, approximately 3.8 million tonnes of field crop and arboricultural residues are theoretically available for energy production. As regards the agro-industrial residues the main types that may be used for energy production are the ones coming mainly from: the fruit canneries, rice mills, olive oil and olive kernel factories and the cotton ginning factories. Most of the agro-industrial residues are being used for animal food production. However, certain types of them are even used for energy production, and mostly heat generation. In contrast to most European countries, forest-derived woody biomass does not represent the dominant type of solid biofuel within the present bioenergy use in Greece. This is due to technical and non-technical barriers affecting forest management, while at the same time biomass derived from agricultural activities consists of a cheap and ready to use fuel, and therefore a more competitive one. More specifically forest management is characterized as especially difficult, since the wooded areas are sited in mountainous or remote regions with adverse pedo-climatic conditions, such as poor and thin soil as well as drought. Moreover, Greece has a rather small forest sector and a large share of its round wood production is used as fuel. The wood of large dimensions is no more than fifty to sixty percent of the total volume harvested from forests producing such wood. The rest is wood of small dimensions, tops, branches and wood of low quality. While hardwoods are used mainly for energy purposes, the softwoods are processed into • 67 sawn wood and particleboard. The country imports all types of forest products, especially sawn wood and paper products. Nevertheless, biomass of forestry origin is expected to play a complementary role in biomass-to-energy supply schemes, in the short term, whereas in the long term forest biomass resources will represent the most important biomass resource, after the overcoming of barriers. In general, the introduction of the proper harvesting technology in forest operations, as well as the modification of the unfavourable legal framework for forest exploitation, are expected to totally change the biomass exploitation context, in Greece positively. The main forms of energy wood produced in the Greek forests are fuelwood as well as logging residues. Othe residues derived from early thinnings as well as from clearing operations for the reduction of fire risk, are not produced at all, since such operations are not or are poorly executed at present due to the lack of state financing. Wod industry in Greece produce by products, whose energy potential was estimated at 10,3PJ (BTG, 2004) or 11,3 PJ (Nikolaou A., 2003). By 2004, cultivation of energy crops had not been established for commercial purposes in Greece due to the existing less favourable technical and economic environment. However, some very promising energy crops have been investigated in several R&D programmes. These efforts started in the late 80’s and focused on important technological barriers affecting the successful implementation. During the last decade, more than 60 experiments as well as research programmes addressing also the issue of energy from crops have been conducted throughout Greece in order to evaluate the biomass yielding potential for several energy crops. Biomass utilization as energy (mainly thermal) source • • • • • • • Today, the chief applications of biomass in Greece as an energy source include: heating of greenhouses heating of buildings by using biomass in individual stoves and central boilers production of heating for drying in cotton gins production of energy in factories district heating while, the following trends are prevailing, concerning the bioenergy use: negative trend: gradual decrease in the use of traditional bioenergy (fuelwood) positive trend: slow growth of new bioenergy applications (agro-industrial residues) While in northern European countries winters are cold and long leading to a high average use of TOEs/dwelling the corresponding value is much lower for Greece, a southern country with low demands in space heating. As an indicative comparison, 68 the corresponding average values for the year 1997 were 1.3 TOEs/dwelling for northern European countries, whereas for Greece it was 0.1 TOEs/dwelling. The thermal energy produced from biomass in Greece concerns either domestic use or industries that produce biomass residues and have at the same time thermal needs. However, biomass heat production is mainly applied to the agricultural and forestry industries using the respective residues (food industry, cotton ginning, wood processing, olive paste and pits, rice husks, fruit kernels etc.). Under these conditions the efficiency of the conversion is determined by the needs and is not always the best possible. There are several small scale applications and mainly in the residential sector that exploit olive pits, fruit kernels etc. These applications occur in agricultural areas where biomass potential, end-user price, logistics issues and fuel quality favour the implementation of such schemes. The thermal energy produced from biomass in Greece per sector is presented in Table 1: Table 1: Plants producing thermal energy from biomass per sector in Greece in 2002 (1st Greek Report on article 4 of Directive 2003/30/EC) Type FUEL WOOD COMBUSTION Domestic use BIOGAS COMBUSTION Food industry residues Sewage treatment plants Total RESIDUE COMBUSTION Wood residues Cotton ginning residues Dry olive kernels Husks/Kernels Rice residues Straw Total TOTAL Consumption (tons) 1.298.520 Thermal energy production (TJ) 29.388 27 779 806 85.774 24.637 500.000 677 5.799 0 616.887 1.915.407 1.166 306 8.372 13 92 0 9.949 40.143 2.3 Preconditions for being a professional installer A number of professions in Greece, among which the technical ones (e.g. carpenters, plumbers, smiths, welders, etc.), do not require neither a work permit nor vocational training background/credentials. Moreover, for some professions formal training exists (especially in the tourist sector) while for others either empirical learning or informal training is usually applied. 69 On the other hand, many companies ask for certifications or working permits, mainly for the professions/specializations that their holders undertake indenture responsibilities (e.g. electricians, machine operators, etc.). In the cases that no statutory professional license is required, then the ad hoc ascertainment (i.e. informally, by managers and/or other company’s executives) of the knowledge and prowess adequacy, irrespective of their origin and without asking for a diploma, is usually enough. Moreover, according to the Trade Union of Hydraulics Technicians, since 2000 there is the possibility for a plumber to obtain certain types of a “Work Permit”, as long as he satisfies one of the following requirements: • if having graduated from any of the following technical schools: TELs (Technical Vocational Lyceums), TESs (Technical Vocational Schools), IEKs, TEEs, or any equivalent to these, as referred to the Presidential Decree 38/91; • if being simply an “experienced craftsman” (not being graduate of any of the above mentioned technical schools), he must have a proven professional experience as a hydraulic installations-craftsman since 1/3/2000. In Table 2, the preconditions required - according to the qualifications or the professional experience of a hydraulic technician - for the granting of each one of the established work permits, namely: • Work permit for an assistant technician, • Work permit for an assistant technician of certain class – e.g. A, B, C, • Work permit for an installations technician, are analytically described: Table 2: Description of the qualifications (or professional experience required) and the corresponding preconditions for the granting of a work permit to a hydraulic technician QUALIFICATIONS PRECONDITIONS WORK PERMIT FOR AN ASSISTANT TECHNICIAN TEL (Technical Vocational Lyceum) Granting a work permit without examinations TES (Technical Vocational School) Lower Technical Schools of Law no. 580/70 Granting a work permit without examinations 750 day wages + examinations Work experience of 3 years + examinations WORK PERMIT FOR A TECHNICIAN OF A CLASS TEL (Technical Vocational Lyceum) 750 day wages (500 in an area of specialization) + examinations TES (Technical Vocational School) 1000 day wages (750 in an area of specialization) + examinations Lower Technical Schools of Law no. 580/70 1250 day wages (1000 as an assistant) + examinations Lower Technical Schools of Law no. 580/70 2250 day wages (2000 in an area of specialization) + examinations Work experience of 11 years (10 in an area of specialization) + examinations Work experience of 8 years (7 in an area of specialization) + a 90-hour seminar +examinations Technician of A class of a different area of 200 day wages as assistant in the 1st area + specialization to the 1st area of examinations 70 specialization* Technician of A class of a different area of 100 day wages as an assistant in the 2nd or 3rd area + specialization to the 2nd ** or 3rd *** areas of examinations specialization 1st, 2nd or 3rd areas of specialization 11 years (or 8) in a different area of specialization + 1 year in the area in question + examinations WORK PERMIT FOR A TECHNICIAN OF B CLASS Technician of A class 1250 day wages in an area of specialization + examinations TEL (Technical Vocational Lyceum) 2000 day wages (1750 in an area of specialization) + examinations TES (Technical Vocational School) 2250 day wages (2000 in an area of specialization) + examinations Lower Technical Schools of Law no. 580/70 3500 day wages (3250 in an area of specialization) + examinations Work experience of 16 years (15 in an area of specialization) + examinations Work experience of 14 years (13 in an area of specialization) + a 90-hour seminar + examinations Technician of B class of a different area of 200 day wages as technician of A class in the 1st specialization to the 1st area of specialization area + examinations Technician of B class of a different area of 100 day wages as technician of A class in the 2nd or specialization to the 2nd or 3rd areas of 3rd area + examinations specialization rd 16 years (or 14) in a different area of specialization 1st, 2nd or 3 area of specialization + 1 year in the area in question + examinations WORK PERMIT FOR AN INSTALLATIONS TECHNICIAN OF A CLASS Technician of B Class 1000 day wages in an area of specialization as technician of A class + examinations TEL(Technical Vocational Lyceum) 3000 day wages (2750 in an area of specialization) + examinations TES (Technical Vocational School) 3250 day wages (3000 in an area of specialization) + examinations Lower Technical Schools of Law no. 580/70 4500 day wages (4250 in an area of specialization) + examinations Work experience of 19 years (18 in an area of specialization) + examinations Work experience of 17 years (16 in an area of specialization) + a 90-hour seminar + examinations Installations Technician of A class of a 400 day wages as technician of B class in the 1st different area of specialization to the1st area area + examinations of specialization Installations technician of A class of a 200 day wages as technician of B class of the 2nd or different area of specialization to the 2nd or 3rd area + examinations 3rd areas of specialization 1st, 2nd or 3rd area of specialization 19 years (or 17) in a different area of specialization + 1 year in the area in question + examinations WORK PERMIT FOR AN INSTALLATIONS TECHNICIAN OF B CLASS Installations Technician of A Class 750 day wages + examinations TEL (Technical Vocational Lyceum) 3750 day wages (3500 in an area of specialization) + examinations 71 TES (Technical Vocational School) 4000 day wages (3750 in an area of specialization) + examinations Lower Technical Schools of Law no. 580/70 5000 day wages (4750 in an area of specialization) + examinations Lower Technical Schools of Law no. 580/70 5000 day wages + examinations Work experience of 21 years (20 in an area of specialization) + examinations Work experience of 19 years (18 in an area of specialization) + a 90-hour seminar + examinations * 1st area of specialization: hydraulics (heating, fire fighting) ** 2nd area of specialization: air conditioning rd *** 3 area of specialization: gases (fuel gases, steam, medical gases) It should be mentioned that the persons holding vocational training certificates issued by OAED (Greek Manpower Employment Organization) – from the apprenticeship schools - are granted the work permit given to the ones holding a TES certificate with 250-day wages added. The vocational training certificate issued by OAED is equivalent to a 1- year work experience. 2.4 Characteristics of the installers training related activities Many companies instruct recruits within the company (on the job training) and retrain the existing employees mainly in the themes they should be familiar with, in order to meet their obligations (mostly using internal trainers). In parallel, they have the opportunity to participate in training programs of the continuing training type, which are usually financed by bodies outside the company. In any case, determinant for the selection (of both the participation and the organisation of internal educational and training programs) is the substantial improvement (modernization) of the knowledge / prowess of the staff trainees and not the acquisition of some kind of certification by the employee that will prove to third parties his knowledge background. The above mentioned forms of education and training can be considered as typical and fall into the informal learning concept (in the frame of the continuing vocational training), without regard to their potential future standardization or confirmation by the acquisition of some kind of certification, as well as irrespective from the potential correlation (or classification) to degrees for the same speciality that have been acquired after a formal attendance in established schools. There are very few specialized installation companies in Greece dealing with any type of plumbing works (hydraulics, heating systems, air-conditioning systems, gases networks). On the other hand, each manufacturer of biomass heating systems (or any other kind of equipment, systems or facilities) – 2 currently existing in Greece possesses its own group of installers for installing its own equipment/systems. So, the training activity in the field (continuing training) relies on the manufacturing companies’ priorities and needs, as it was already mentioned above. As regards the responsibilities of installers for decisions and planning, in newly constructed buildings they only act on the instructions of the site engineers, while in old 72 buildings they are often directly contacted by owners, without the involvement of planners. In concluding, the target groups of small-scale biomass heating systems related training in Greece are installers, plumbers, and the so called “thermo-hydraulics technicians”. 3. Potential training providers In the present chapter, a description of the potential training providers for the implementation and development of training courses for the installers of biomass heating systems is following. As mentioned in subchapter 2.1, in Greece there are two types of training organisations that could undertake the role of potential training providers: • • Institutes of Vocational Training (IEKs) Vocational Training Centres (KEKs). As regards the possibility of Technical-Vocational Educational Schools (TEEs) for playing the role of potential providers for courses on small-scale biomass heating systems (or other forms of non-conventional heating systems) installation issues, it should be clarified that TEEs are (according to the Greek constitution) under the direct supervision of YPEPTh. There exists the Directorate of Secondary Education Curriculum whose competency, through its individual sections, includes: drawing up curricula and timetables, monitoring their application, dealing with matters relative to teaching methods and vocational guidance for all schools (state-run and private, Hellenic, foreign and minority), pupil-related matters (registrations, transfers, duration of studies, certificates), drafting and approving textbooks and distributing them to the schools through the School Book Publishing Organisation (OEDB), and implementing new programmes. Issues related to Curricula and Textbooks are carried on upon proposal by the Pedagogical Institute. As a consequence, it wouldn’t be easy to achieve the necessary integration (even for pilot testing purposes) of the “Biomass heating systems installers” part of the course in TEEs’ curricula, since this kind of “modification” of the curriculum schedule necessitates the involvement of (and relevant permissions obtained from) many state bodies, as well as issuing of some kind of Ministerial or Presidential Decree (or even a new Law) in order to be implemented. 3.1 Institutes of Vocational Training As was mentioned previously, the administration and financial supervision of public IEKs is made by OEEK, an organisation operating under the YPEPTh. YPEPTh also appoints IEK directors and their deputies for a two-year term. Most of the IEK administrative staff comes from OEEK. IEK directors are responsible for the everyday educational and administrative matters, and IEKs curricula are drawn up by OEEK. Apart from the public IEKs, OEEK also supervises and monitors the private IEKs established after 1997 all over Greece. OEEK defines the conditions for granting a 73 permit to establish and run a private IEK and defines also the qualifications and service/ disciplinary status required for personnel in a private IEK, as well as every other issue related to the trainees’ studies. Taking into account the supervisory role of OEKK in the administration, operation and control of both public and private IEKs, and in order to strain all resources to the direction of initial vocational training, CRES has tried on numerous occasions to arrange a meeting with OEEK’s administration in an attempt to begin a series of discussions about the activation in IEKs of the “Renewable Energy application technicians” specialty. It is worth noting that, this specialty stands as one of the 140 ones officially approved by OEEK for inclusion in IEKs’ curricula; however no IEK offers this course yet. CRES also posted detailed information about the proposed in the frame of the SUNTRAIN Project course (to form part of the overall curriculum for the above mentioned specialty) on the OEEK open forum webpage, sent a letter to the OEEK’s president in May 2003 and have made numerous attempts to refresh the memories of a number of senior parties in OEEK. CRES has not received yet any feedback from them. This lack of feedback is probably due to the administrative time frame under which OEEK operates and existing work load, as well as of a change in executives due to the recent parliamentary elections (March 2004) in Greece. 3.2 Vocational Training Centres It is important to notice that, since 1998, only the training structures that have been certified as Vocational Training Centres (KEKs) by EKEPIS (a body formed by and operated under the auspices of the Ministry of Labour & Social Affairs) are eligible to implement continuing vocational training programs in Greece. So, starting from this point, a detailed examination of the accreditation status of Continuous Vocational Training in Greece has been carried out. The output of this investigation was that KEKs should undergo an accreditation procedure by EKEPIS when they are first established, according to a Ministerial Decree of January 2001. This accreditation covers: 1) Their educational experience – the structure and operation of KEK; 2) The managerial, scientific and administrative personnel; 3) The buildings infrastructure (classrooms, laboratories, etc.); 4) Available equipment (PCs, photocopying machines, laboratory equipment, etc). Apart from that, all KEKs are obliged to select the major part (75%) of their training personnel from a register of certified trainers operated by again EKEPIS. To become a certified trainer, certain criteria formulated by an M.D. of the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs have to be fulfilled. The rest 25% of the trainers at KEKs (being ‘non certified trainers’) should fulfil only part of the criteria set by the Ministry of Labour. Following a recent Common M.D. (5/2003), KEKs now undergo an evaluation every 2 years, which is also conducted by EKEPIS. 74 On the completion of a course, all KEKs provide their trainees with a certificate of attendance. This is used by the trainees as an indication (or equivalent) of “previous experience”, and submitted with an application for a higher level Work Permit. A KEK, in order to be eligible to implement a training program as the one proposed in the framework of the EARTH project, has to be certified in the thematic field of “Technical and transport professions” (together with 3 more-other thematic fields, as mentioned above) – according to the official definition and classification of various professions. Furthermore, it must be noticed that the ultimate objective of KEKs (whether state or private owned) is to make profit from the training services provided by them, since they are not funded from any other source. So, no KEK will be normally willing to pilot test a training seminar in case that it will not be possible to provide also funding options (from any source) for that purpose. 3.3 Conclusions As the main goals of the National Vocational Education and Training System, which is under continuous development in Greece, are: • the organisation, development and provision of vocational training, • the harmonisation of vocational training with the educational system, and • the formal certification of vocational training, both the State and the market actors are deeply interested in training courses / curricula that lead to some kind of certification. The operation of Employment Promotion Centres in many Greek cities creates perspectives for a new way of approach as regards the implementation of individualized training, while the foundation of specialized Centres for Planning of Vocational Training provides the necessary scientific support. Being especially determinant to the development of the vocational training in Greece, the creation by Law of the Fund for the Employment and Vocational Training, which was made up as an initiative of the social partners, more specifically of both the employers and crafts organisations, is worth noting. This account is financed by the employers’ contribution (0.45% of the employers’ contribution payments to the Social Insurance Corporation for vocational training and another 0.36% for the combat of unemployment). At the same time, well-defined structures that provide the various forms of vocational education and training, both initial (formal and informal) and continuing, exist. Although there are very few seminars/courses or other kind of curricula available nowadays in the biomass heating systems installation topics addressing interested people in the field, there is a general interest in this direction, together with an equally important interest in the installation techniques for natural gas firing equipment (natural gas is a “new” energy source for Greece). It must be noticed that The Vocational Training Centres (KEKs) are in general more appropriate than the Institutes of Vocational Training (IEKs) for the purposes of the realization and implementation of training courses, due to the nature of the training provided in these two educational structures. As regards accreditation/certification, the 75 KEKs are interested in accreditation of their training programs. There is less interest in the accreditation of KEK structures or the certification of KEKs trainers, since the Greek government already operates such a scheme. 4. Summary of discussions with training bodies 4.1 Results of a survey implemented in the frame of SUNTRAIN As it is mentioned in the project’s description for WP 1, a survey aiming at bringing together the project partners with the local training providers has already been carried out by CRES (and other partners) in the frame of the “European Solar Water Heating Accreditation and Certification” ALTENER 4.1030/Z/01-109 SUNTRAIN Project. Taking into consideration the fact that the target group (i.e. the most relevant specialty of a technician for the installation of biomass heating systems) is the same as the one for the case of SWH systems installation, i.e. plumbers and heating engineers, it was not considered necessary by CRES experts to carry out again a similar survey for the same purposes. So, in the frame of the above mentioned survey, CRES experts made direct contacts with the directors (or with the persons responsible for the training issues) of a number of KEKs in order to explore the possibilities of implementing the pilot course developed in the frame of SUNTRAIN, as was foreseen in its work-programme. These people had also filled up and returned back to CRES a questionnaire that was submitted to them in the frame of a relevant survey performed for the same project as well. For completeness purposes it must be mentioned that, the SUNTRAIN survey for Greece was carried out based on a questionnaire that derived from an interview guide provided by the Fraunhofer ISI. The questionnaire was sent by e-mail or fax to: (1) 168 KEKs (vocational training centres) (2) 240 IEKs (vocational training institutes) all over Greece (the questionnaire was accompanied with a covering letter that informed the directors about the SUNTRAIN project and its objectives). Only 9 of the IEKs and 7 of the KEKs addressed completed the questionnaires. The low level of response was due to the fact that most of the questioned people thought it was necessary to have already had implemented a course on SWH systems to be able to answer the questionnaire. Seven of the people questioned (from both categories) provided suggestions on the content and the organisational aspects of the course (although concerning the SUNTRAIN course, those suggestions/opinions are still valid here). They said that: 1) The quality of the program should be high and should take European standards on board. 2) The course should utilise modern teaching methods such as e-learning. 3) The contents should be well-defined and determined by an established Institute in the field of the relevant systems. 4) The course should not exceed 100 hours and should require compulsory attendance. 76 5) The course should focus on technical issues and include modern developments in the field, safety at work and environmental considerations. Detailed notes should be available and the course should contain a practical element. 6) Examinations should be carried out for both theoretical and practical elements of the course and should be examined at the end. Certificates should be awarded by a reputable agency that already has a certification scheme. 7) The program should facilitate the participation of professionals. Further suggestions were given on the course evaluation committee. According to the respondents, such as a committee: • should be inter-European; • should consist of representatives from: − agencies and manufacturers, and of scientists specialised in the field of SWH systems − the heating engineers association − training and certification agencies − industrial and commercial chambers − specialised workers’ centre • Its members should be university graduates and should know the subject in depth. They must also have knowledge and experience in adult training. 4.2 Contacts with potential training providers Taking into consideration the possibilities as well as the obstacles for a potential cooperation with public and private KEKs, discussions were made with other players in the field, with whom CRES had collaborated in the past in the framework of already completed projects (SUNTRAIN, etc.), in order to find the appropriate channels for achieving larger possibilities for the accomplishment of our task. The KEKs with which a more extended discussion was made are briefly presented (since the analytical description of the results that came up from the discussions is fully presented in the “Report for the SWH systems training, in the frame of EARTH WP1 again): Discussion with the Director of Isiodos KEK The director of this specific private KEK (Isiodos KEK, located in Xanthi) showed a great interest in the general concept of the implementation and running of a pilot course for installers, since this KEK had a relevant experience of having worked in the recent past with installers (providing training on the Natural Gas equipment installation techniques). The director mentioned that, due to the nature and the way of operation of KEKs in general, no conventional funding for such a course is available, so funding had to be obtained from alternative sources. Discussions with the KEKs’ Director of VOCATIONAL TRAINING S.A. VOCATIONAL TRAINING S.A. is a subsidiary company of the Greek Manpower Employment Organisation (OAED) and is responsible for the operation of 77 31 Institutes of Vocational Training (IEKs), and 33 Centres of Vocational Training (KEKs) all over Greece. In order for the KEKs of OAED to be able to implement the proposed course, a proposal must be submitted in the form of a technical report to the Implementing Authority of the O.P. for the “Employment and Vocational Training” (as is also the case for any other KEK). This must satisfy the following requirements: a) Address unemployed, who need a specialisation, b) be an independent module, not part of another wider program, and c) have a relatively long duration (150-400 hours, including practical training). Discussions with the director of Sivitanidios School’s KEK The “Sivitanidios Public School of Arts and Crafts” is a Technical Vocational School that has also established both an IEK and a KEK. The main outcome of the contacts with the training director Mr Krikonis was that the course could easily be implemented in Sivitanidios School’s KEK, since facilities already exist for the practical part of the training, from other cycles of seminars for plumbers and/or installations technicians they have implemented in the past. In addition, the course has to be implemented as a self-financed one (the participants will pay for their studies). Discussions with the Director of KEK of Agioi Anargiroi According to the discussions made with the management of the KEK of Agioi Anargiroi, it is quite feasible for them to implement any proposed courses for RES systems installers, since they already run a wider course that covers RES systems design and operation. The director of the KEK said that they could incorporate elements of the proposed programs in their currently running curriculum (if this will not raise additional costs to them). Discussions held in February 2004 with the Director of the KEK indicated that the accreditation / certification procedure of ISPQ is of great worth. The KEK’s managerial staff held an internal meeting to discuss whether they should operate a course and undergo ISPQ accreditation in April 2004. 4.3 Other relevant activities CRES tried many times in the past to arrange an appointment with the president of OBYE (Trade Union of Hydraulics Technicians of Greece) in order to discuss with him the details of our collaboration in the implementation of the SWH systems installation course, again in the framework of the SUNTRAIN project. This was thought to be two-fold, first for providing as trainers some members of OBYE being installers experienced in SWH systems, and secondly for pointing out to CRES interested people for attending the course(s). Apart from that, it is worth noting that OBYE has already established relations with OAED and the KEK of the General Confederation of Professionals and Practical Tradesmen of Greece (GSEVEE), so it was thought that they could probably push things towards these two directions. Discussions with OBYE’s president will be continued and strengthened in the frame of the EARTH Project. 78 Title: Biomass, Lithuania Organization: LEI 1. Training infrastructures and programmes Labour market vocational training is performed according to the regulations of Government of Lithuania Republic Nr.3797 2004-06-29 “Training License Rules” and Nr.6740 2004-12-15 “Audit order to provide vocational training programmes”. Training programmes are settled jointly with the Ministry of Education and Science, the Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Social Security and Labour, the Ministry of Transport, and other ministries, with the Chamber of Industry, Commerce and Trades, the State Labour Inspectorate, educational and other institutions. The schema of training structure is shown in Figure 1. The management structure of Authority and the territorial dislocation of its divisions secure the provision of effective services throughout the country (see Figure 2.). The Lithuanian Labour Market Training and Counselling System consists of the Lithuanian Labour Market Training Authority (LLMTA), 6 Territorial Labour Market Training and Counselling Offices, (in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipeda, Siauliai, Panevezys and Alytus, as well as Minor Offices located at Ignalina, Taurage, and Akmene) allocated to the Authority, and 15 Labour Market Training Centres belonging to the area of Authority’s regulation (4 in Vilnius, 3 in Kaunas, 1 in Klaipeda, 1 in Siauliai, 2 in Panevezys, 1 in Alytus, 1 in Marijampole, 1 in Utena, 1 in Visaginas; one of them - the Vilnius Zirmunai Labour Market Training Centre has its branch office at Druskininkai, and minor offices at Zarasai and Pakruojis; the Vilnius Vocational Training and Management Institute has its branch in Klaipeda). To co-ordinate operations better and to attract social partners for the solution of urgent labour market issues, a Board of Directors, a Board of Management, a Publishing Commission, Experts’ Commission, and a tripartite Experts’ Council consisting of representatives of trade-unions, employers’ organisations, and governmental institutions work on a regular basis under the Lithuanian Labour Market Training Authority. Lithuanian Labour Market Training Authority activities LLMTA promoter - Ministry of Social Security and Labour of the Republic of Lithuania. Lithuanian Labour Market Training Authority (hereinafter referred to as the Authority) is the biggest national organisation engaged in the consecutive and purposeful development of adults’ vocational training, guidance and counselling as active labour market policy measures for the enlargement of employment rate among jobless or risk-group people and for the advancement of competitive skills among the employed. The Authority takes part in the formation of vocational training policy geared to labour market needs. It contributes to human resources’ development programs. Through its active co-operation with social partners Authority implements state policy decisions in the area of labour market vocational training, counselling and guidance. 79 Figure 2. A scheme of training structure in Lithuania. 80 Figure 3. LLMTA system operations 2003 year Authority’s structural divisions are located in major towns of Lithuania. They provide services nation-wide. Six (6) territorial labour market training and counselling offices, and 15 labour market training centres function under the Authority (see Fig.2). To co-ordinate actions more effectively for the solution of urgent labour market issues, the Authority incorporates a Board of Directors, a Board of Management, a Publishing Commission, an Experts’ Commission, and a tripartite Board of Experts consisting of representatives of trade unions, employer organisations, and governmental institutions. Quality services provided by labour market training and counselling offices are secured by more than 430 staff members scattered throughout the territory of Lithuania. Among them there are employees with Doctor’s degree, Master’s degree, staff members seeking a Doctor’s degree in vocational training management or psychological counselling. The staff includes professional psychologists, professional instructors, experts and other highly-qualified specialists. Authority pays major attention to the improvement of professional skills among its personnel members. It organises qualification tests and provides training to professional instructors, makes necessary arrangements for 81 qualification improvement workshops intended for the managing and counselling staff of territorial offices. It organises contests aimed at the improvement of teachers’ qualifications among the staff of training centres. It teaches specialists working at the Authority or its divisions to handle EU structural funds. It organises educational seminars for the advancement of new working methods, forms, and other measures. Annually, about 20 thsd. persons complete training courses at labour market training centres located within the area of Authority’s regulation. The greatest share of persons receiving training - over 30 per cent of the total number of trainees - is directed for training by employers. Every third trainee arrives on his/her own initiative while every fourth is a jobless directed for training by a labour exchange. Specialists working at the Authority or its territorial offices provide all necessary information to persons seeking training. They also give necessary information on vocational training, the range of available professions, labour market demand, employment chances, etc. To achieve greater effectivity in labour market vocational training, basic labour market indicators, changes in the fluctuation of labour market supply and demand are analysed. Besides, surveys and investigations into the assessment of effectivity of training and counselling services are conducted. To achieve this purpose, Authority co-operates with the Labour and Social Research Institute, the Statistics Department, and the Lithuanian Labour Exchange. Research data corroborated the guess that the greater part of service users assessed services very positively (78 per cent respondents) as the services helped respondents not only to realise the needs of labour market but also to become aware of their own wishes and possibilities. Upon the completion of training programs, the development of distance training for disabled is currently gaining speed at Klaipėda Labour Market Training Centre. To carry out EU programs for Lithuania’s EU membership approved by RL Government, the staff of Authority participates in a range of EU Council experts’ meetings at Brussels. They organise Authority activities on the grounds of EU requirements, introducing a new attitude to the idea of lifelong education and care of the development of human resources. By taking part in international projects, Authority specialists accumulate experience gained by foreign countries. This may help them to integrate more smoothly into the space of EU vocational training. Long-term partnership relations stretch from the Authority into Ireland, Austria, Denmark, Great Britain, Estonia, Greece, Spain, Italy, Latvia, Norway, Holland, Portugal, France, Russia, Finland, Sweden, Germany and other countries. Activities performed by training centres Currently there are fifteen labour market training centres with their branches and minor offices at other towns (see Fig.2). All of them belong to the area of regulation of Lithuanian Labour Market Training Authority. The chief activity directions followed by labour market training centres include the provision of training to adults, retraining, and qualification improvement. This gives a chance to raise one’s professional level, to learn a new trade, or to acquire working experience. 82 Among persons accepted for training there are ones directed by employers or labour exchanges, and also persons who seek training independently. The ones who arrive independently pay for their training from their own funds. Centres offer training conducted according to formal and non-formal labour market training programs. The training program is concluded with an examination. Examinations are participated by professional instructors and employers. Persons who complete formal training programs put on the Register of Study and Training Programs are issued a registered certificate providing evidence of awarded qualifications or ability to perform definite type of work. Persons who complete non-formal training programs (modules) are issued certificates of non-formal education. Training centres apply a wide range of training forms, e.g. theoretical and practical training, laboratory tasks, distance training which is steadily gaining popularity , and external studies. Labour market training programs provide the maximum training duration of 10 months. The definite length of training depends on the program chosen by definite trainee. The quality of vocational training services provided by labour market training centres is secured by experience and competence, highly-qualified staff, strong training basis. Labour market training centres train specialists demanded by the market. Activities performed by LLMTA divisions The Training Quality control division (hereinafter referred to as the Division) performs two basic functions: Labour market vocational training quality supervision; Organisation and co-ordination of labour market training centres’ operations, and the preparation of relevant legislation drafts. Besides the said functions, the Division carries out also other works by order of LLMTA (hereinafter referred to as the Authority). The first function covers the organisation, co-ordination and control of supervision of training institutions and enterprises engaged in labour market vocational training and of the implementation of labour market vocational training programs. The Division prepares normative documents relating to the said operations. If needed, it gives suggestions how to amend or supplement them. It provides consultations, on a permanent basis, to territorial labour market training and counselling offices on problems encountered by them. The Division analyses and generalises supervision results. Following the analysis, it gives its conclusions and suggestions to Authority management. Seminars on issues relating to supervision and training for the supervising staff of territorial offices are organised regularly. Conclusions and suggestions are submitted to Authority management: currently the Division is preparing suggestions for the modification of LMTC status; the execution of tender for the selection of labour market vocational training institutions and enterprises able to provide training to jobless; the training of prisoners and disabled people, and for the renovation of working skills in long-term jobless. The staff of Division take active part in the preparation of the draft of new labour market vocational training regulations. 83 The legislative basis is ready. It will help to select labour market training institutions and enterprises able to examine external trainees. Specialists working at the Division give consultations on this issue to territorial labour market training and counselling offices. Today, a system able to secure high-quality vocational training is especially urgent. The staff of Division take active part in its elaboration. Licensing of labour market professional training 136 recommendations relating to the licensing of enterprises, organisations, and educational institutions were submitted to the Ministry of Education and Science: 34 recommendations - for issuing a licence to provide training according to labour market training programs; 89 - for issuing a repeated licence to provide training; 13 - for reregistering a licence to provide training. Two (2) recommendations were submitted to the Ministry of Education and Science for the withdrawal of a licence to provide training. 18 consents to provide training with the indication of a definite address were issued. 5 consents were given to enterprises having a licence to provide training without the indication of the address of a training sub-division. In late 2003, two hundred sixty-six (266) enterprises, organisations and educational institutions had a licence to provide training according to labour market vocational training programs: 14 licences were held by labour market training centres; 91 licences - by educational institutions; 8 - by governmental enterprises; 20 - by stock companies; 53 - by close joint-stock companies; 3 - by general partnerships; 36 - by individual enterprises; and 41 - by organisations. The quality of labour market vocational training In 2003, specialists from territorial LMTO inspected the quality of training provided according to 202 training programs at 81 vocational training institutions. Supervising Commission’s decisions concerning activities carried out by vocational training institutions were as follows: a repeated inspection of 60 training programs was needed; 93 training programs were given time in the course of which the involved vocational training institutions were to correct their mistakes and inform about it territorial labour market training and counselling offices; suspension of a licence was suggested in 4 vocational training institutions; withdrawal of a licence was suggested in 4 vocational training institutions. Licensing of enterprises, organizations, educational institutions providing labour market training services 84 Figure 4. Enterprises having a licence to provide training according to labour market training programs Figure 5. Number of enterprises, organisations, educational institutions having Education and Science Ministry’s licence to provide training according to labour market vocational training programs, by counties. Recent situation of the professional training by Enterprises, organisations and educational institutions having Education and Science Ministry’s licence to provide training courses and programs in the field of energy including renewable energy (according to labour market vocational training programs) is satisfactory. However there is no any accredited institution. Most of the young people graduated primary school has a possibility to join to the university, non-university, advanced and basic vocational education and training programmes. When they obtain background qualification in the energy field, there is a possibility to train and improve their qualification operating with a specified 85 installation based on renewable energy sources given by the professional training institutions which are listed and assest below. 2. Needs of target groups Target groups for the EARTH project include training institutions, biomass installation personnel, plumbers, heating engineers, housing and building developers, energy bodies and associations. Manufacturers are very interested in consumer satisfaction and confidence of their products. This is important for their image and thus for the promotion of their products. To ensure high quality installations, the products (e.g. biomass heaters) have to be installed correctly. Therefore, manufacturers are interested in further education of their contract installers and some firms already offer biomass-training courses for installers. As the consumers rely on good, functioning and high quality products, it is useful for them to identify skilled biomass system installers. This is possible via implementation of the accredited courses and issue certificates for the installers. It is important to identify bottlenecks, improvements of existing scheme of career education to satisfy the needs of this target groups in terms of biomass heating installations. In order to create sufficient demand for biomass training courses among installers, it is therefore essential to closely cooperate with official Lithuanian craft training and education centers, which are entitled and willing to introduce certificates for qualified biomass installers. There are 15 career education centers in Lithuania, however, none of them satisfies the requirements of competencies of biomass installers sufficiently. Seven centres would be enough managed according to different principles. Career education assets should be reallocated according to regions’ demands, the mechanism should be created instructing how enterprises should dispose assets, intended for career education, more flexibly. Besides, observation system of career education should be created. However, head of labor market education service acknowledged that career education in Lithuania is in the same position as it was 15 years ago. There are unspecified requirements of career education programs for general education, unclear and unspecified qualification after completing career education. Career education is organized in such way that it is impossible to combine job and education periods. There is no an apprentice (training in the field of production) scheme, and practical training basis of educational institutions is very weak and backward. Influence of employers on the career education in all levels is insignificant and it is not formalized. Since there is no interrelation, heads of enterprises have to think how to form the required skills and retrain their personnel. A general problem of vocational training system in Lithuania is the high complexity of skills, which should be known by an installer, therefore not all required competencies could be covered sufficiently by the vocational training. There are many prosals how to change this situation, one of them is to reform career education programs into competencies’ assimilation. Obtained competencies could have credits, which would be summarized and would enable to obtain a higher qualification. The 86 interaction between career education and general education should be managed in such way that the education for obtaining qualification would be separated from the general education. A clear qualifications’ organization should be created in order to change or supplement it, to perform sectarian qualification investigations, to increase status and accessibility of career education, etc. In pursuance of changes, board of qualifications and system of qualifications should be developed, financing for employers organizations in the field of career education should be allocated. In the vocational training of the Lithuania educational system there is no explicit biomass competencies as a part of the official training programmes. Lessons on biomass may be offered in exceptional cases, but only on a supplementary and voluntary basis. Only when there is a sufficiently large number of enterprises, which have experience with biomass systems to be passed to the apprentices, a special biomass programme could be introduced. Neither accredited courses nor certificates exist at the moment in Lithuania. An accreditation of training providers (e.g. by ISPQ) and the introduction of a certified biomass installer diploma would therefore contribute to a higher consumer satisfaction. 3. Potential training providers Potential training providers for installers of biomass and partners for the implementation and performing of courses on the installation in Lithuania are listed and assessed in this part. They provide training and give different level of qualification. Potential providers we can divide in three groups, such as education and research institutions, agencies and training centres, manufacturers. All of them have an Education and Science Ministry’s licence to provide training courses and programs in the field of energy and will contribute in the following activities, such as provision of the training material, identification of lecturers, selection and organization of the courses, support for course implementation, certification of course participants, accreditation of biomass training courses, political support and publicity for biomass training courses via internet, magazines and seminars. Education and research institutions Education institutions are very important in developing training infrastructure and performing courses for installers of energy facilities including biomass. Most of them provide professional training according to the programs approved and registered by the Ministry of Education and Science: power engineering, power and thermal engineering, energy engineering, heat energetics, heating supply specialist and issue the corresponding qualification certificates. Kaunas University of Technology, The Centre for Renewable Energy Technologies The Centre for Renewable Energy Technologies (The CRET) was founded in 2000 at Kaunas University of Technology. The CRET is active in the following areas: 87 Participation in undergraduate programs and courses of study leading to the degree of Bachelor of Science, graduate and postgraduate studies lead to Master's of Science and Doctor's degrees; - Consultations, seminars and courses of professional skills improvement for specialists of industry and agriculture; - Education of society, formation of the right standpoint on employment of renewable energy sources and modern technologies of energy conversion in Lithuania; - Participation in national and international research programs and projects of renewable energy technologies; - Cooperation with industrial and trade companies and other business institutions in demonstration and propagation of modern equipment for renewable and alternative energy employment. According to the activities mentioned above the CRET is a potential partner for cooperation in organizing cources, selection of potential lecturers and providing valuable material for cources within the framework of the EARTH project. Kaunas University of Technology, Department of Thermal and Nuclear Energy Department’s activities began in 1922 when the Department of Internal Engines was founded in Lithuanian University in Kaunas. In 1940 the name of the department was changed to the Thermal Engines Department; in 1962 - to the Thermal Energy Department. Since 1995 the department’s name has been the Department of Thermal and Nuclear Energy. The main activities of the department are to prepare thermal engineering bachelors, master's and doctor's. Obtained qualification gives the opportunity to work as the main specialists in heat generation, supply, installation design and manufacturer companies. Therefore the department is a strong partner in selection of lecturers and providing the material for the courses within the framework of the EARTH project. Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Department of Heating and Ventilation Heating and Ventilation Department was established in 1961 as a part of Kaunas Polytechnical Institute. It was preparing engineering specialists in a field of ventilation, heat and gas supply. Since 1988 Heating and Ventilation department becomes a part of Vilnius Gediminas Technical University. The department prepares thermal engineering bachelors, energy planning and thermal engineering science masters and doctors. Research areas: Energy use and supply systems for indoor climate of sustainable housing: - Integration of renewable energy resources into building heating systems; - Building energy systems: life cycle analysis and sustainable development; - Quality of indoor climate and the efficiency of energy use for buildings. Professional training is based on power and thermal engineering and energy energetics programmes, which aims to prepare specialist working in investigation of energy supply and usage systems, installations and processes. Therefore the department is a strong partner in selection of lecturers and providing the material for the courses within the framework of the EARTH project. - 88 Lithuanian University of Agriculture, Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Department of Heat and Biotechnological Engineering Faculty provides undergraduate and post-graduate studies. There is one of the subjects in the department related to biomass based technologies and be as a potential partner within the EARTH project, called heat technique and heat use in agriculture. The department provides professional training based on the agricultural power engineering program, which includes study course on renewable energy technologies. Therefore they may participate as a partners for the selection of lecturers and provide course material. Siauliai University, Faculty of Technology, Research centre of Energy and Environmentally Clean Technologies The center was established in 1998 and it is active in the following areas: research of environmental problems creation and investigation of new and ecologically clean technologies economical usage of energy sources alternative energetics The center based on voluntary principles gathering researches and active specialists interested in developing of alternative energy and actively participating in the research of effective energy usage, finding and improving technologies for clean energy generation. The main goals of the center is to participate in Lithuanian and international projects related to energy saving, usage of renewable energy sources and environmental protection. Lithuanian Forest Research Institute The Lithuanian Forest Research Institute (LFRI) is a state institute, established in 1950. LFRI is the main forest research organisation in Lithuania. Institute prepares recommendations, law projects, carries out expertises, gives advise for forest practise. Applied research and scientific applied activities are carried according agreements with state institutions, forest enterprises and other economy subjects or physical persons. The institute will strongly contribute to the EARTH project based on their experience in using renewable energy sources mainly biomass (woody sources for energy, growing and usage of short rotation forests possibilities and potential in Lithuania, etc.). Their valuable consultations, selection of potential lecturers will help in organizing the high quality of training courses for biomass installers. Forest Inventory and Management Institute State enterprise "Forest Inventory and Management Institute"(FIMI) Constitutor Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Founded in 1922. The related activity of FIMI within the EARTH project is identification of biomass potential in Lithuania, organization of seminars and courses, publication. The FIMI may contribute in organizing the courses, provide material on the potential of woody biomass in Lithuania and identify the lecturers. 89 Lithuanian University of Agriculture, Institute of Agricultural Engineering One of the main activities of the institute is focused in research of the influence of solid biofuel and furnace parameters on the kinetics of combustion process and pollutants composition. Their experience on experimental investigations of biomass boilers and obtained knowledge in the field of installation design, process control and reduction of emissions will help to orginize biomass training seminars, select and provide qualified lecturers, as well as to prepare a course material. Lithuanian Energy Institute Two laboratories are in competence to provide and organize qualified training courses including selection of potential lecturers, course material, publicity and future developments in this area. Laboratory of Renewable Energy The main directions of the Laboratory activities: - determination of renewable energy sources (RES), assessment of their utilization prospects and solution of environmental protection problems; - Search for updated technologies of utilization of local and RES, feasibility assessment, preparation of regulation norms, legislation and project documents, formation of databases, services and consulting of customers; Energy efficiency research and information center The main directions of the Laboratory activities: - to accumulate, analyze and convey to experts and society the experience of efficient energy consumption in Lithuania and abroad; - Projects for the realization of National Energy Efficiency Programme; - Participation in international projects, organization of conferences and training courses. Vilnius College of Construction and Design It is a state non-university higher education institution. The college highly values and cherishes all its experience and traditions, accumulated since the foundation of the school in 1954. During the reform of education in 1991 Vilnius Construction - Engineering Technical School was reorganized into Vilnius Construction College and in 2002 into College of Construction and Design in higher education. Full time – duration of studies 3 years; Among the other specelizations wich are handled by the VCCD is heating energetics where experience and qualification may help to contribute as a partners within the framework of EARTH project. Students studying heating energetics develop responsibility for performing their work independently in the following areas: 90 building processes organization; heating distribution system engineering construction; heating distribution system installation; heating distribution system maintainance; business enterprise organization. In studying speciality subjects students acquire knowledge about building materials and their products, building elements, geodetic measurement, thermodynamic processes, basics of electrotechnical and electronical systems, heating supply systems constructions - 91