PHAM NEWS | DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026 30 Training& Education


The Golden Triangle: greater than the sum of its parts


The UK’s energy transition is accelerating, and installers who embrace solar PV, battery storage and heat pumps will be best placed to lead it. Here’s why this ‘Golden Triangle’ is shaping the future of renewables, according to Segen’s Christofer Fisher.


T


he need for renewable energy has never been greater. With the UK aiming for net


zero carbon emissions by 2050, reducing reliance on fossil fuels is becoming increasingly urgent. This shift isn’t just policy-driven; homeowners and businesses are taking control of their energy use, cutting costs while shrinking their carbon footprint. For installers, this creates a


major opportunity. Demand for solar systems, BESS and heat pumps continues to rise, increasing the need for skilled professionals to design, install and maintain them. Together, these technologies form the ‘Golden Triangle’ – a fully integrated, sustainable and cost-eff ective solution. Installers able to deliver all three gain a strong competitive edge and are well positioned for a fast-growing market.


Christofer Fisher Senior technical product manager at Segen Ltd


The Golden Triangle One of the most compelling reasons for installers to embrace the Golden Triangle is the powerful synergy between three core technologies. When combined, solar PV, BESS and heat pumps off er a level of energy effi ciency and independence that each technology on its own cannot match. This synergy begins with onsite


solar, which generates clean, renewable electricity during daylight hours. However, solar energy production is intermittent and peak generation doesn’t always align with periods of highest demand. This can lead to energy being wasted if it is not stored. By pairing solar PV with a


 Segen Academy’s solar mounting rig


battery, excess energy produced during the day can be stored for use later, for example when the price of grid electricity is higher, or at night. Using stored energy at night allows system owners to increase their solar self- consumption rate, which directly contributes to a shorter return on investment (ROI) period. Stored energy can also be


used to power equipment and processes, including heat pumps. Heat pumps off er a highly effi cient heating solution compared to traditional technologies because they move heat rather than generate it through combustion or resistive electric heating. This allows them to deliver more heat energy than the electricity they consume. When powered by solar, the fi nancial and environmental benefi ts of heat pumps are amplifi ed, as the energy consumed is clean and low cost. Heat pumps can operate


directly from solar, but only while the system is generating. Without storage, they can’t run at night or on cloudy days without tapping the grid. Adding a battery closes the loop, allowing longer, more effi cient operation.


The UK government has made


renewable energy central to its plans for a sustainable future. Alongside schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, it has also announced upcoming grants and loans for homeowners installing solar PV, though no offi cial launch date has been confi rmed. Government incentives are


creating major opportunities for installers as demand for renewables grows. Those off ering installation, advice and maintenance across solar PV, BESS and heat pumps will stand out as customers seek integrated, whole-home solutions. Understanding how these systems work together boosts customer value, improves ROI and future- proofs energy use. Expanding skills across all three also smooths seasonal demand, with solar busier in summer and heat pumps in winter, helping installers maintain stable, year-round work and income.


New generation While the Golden Triangle off ers signifi cant advantages, it also presents its share of challenges. Many installers specialise in a single technology, which can make it diffi cult to branch out into new areas. For example, gas boiler installers may face challenges when transitioning to heat pump installations, as these require new skills like precise heat loss calculations and system sizing, which are not typically needed in gas systems. Similarly, solar installers


moving into battery storage must navigate the complexities of integrating these systems. Eff ective battery storage requires a strong understanding of electrical grid dynamics and load balancing. For those primarily trained in solar installations, adapting to these additional requirements can take time and eff ort. The solution to these challenges lies in eff ective training. Practical


experience is essential to help installers build the skills and confi dence they need to diversify their skillset. Supportive, hands-on workshops focused on renewable energy installations off er a valuable learning environment, allowing installers to gain real-world experience without the pressure and risks associated with learning on active job sites.


Learning opportunity This approach guided the development of the Segen Academy, a dedicated training facility located in Medway, Rochester. The Academy’s curriculum has been developed based on comprehensive research and feedback from the installer community, alongside guidance from key industry organisations including MCS and regional public sector education provider, the New City Trade Skills College. On off er are LCL accredited


courses that provide valuable learning opportunities in areas like heat pump sizing, energy storage integration, and mastering solar installations. The courses are designed both for existing renewables installers looking to expand their expertise and for professionals from other technical fi elds seeking to transition into the rapidly growing renewables sector. Ultimately, the Academy aims to cultivate a new generation of multidisciplinary renewable energy installers, guided by the mentorship of experienced industry professionals. Installers can also build stronger,


more resilient businesses. Off ering solar PV, BESS and heat pumps helps smooth seasonal workfl ows and maintain steady revenue year-round. By embracing the Golden Triangle and committing to ongoing training, installers can ensure they future-proof their business and stay ahead of the competition. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/126/29


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