Holmesglen Institute has incorporated its renewable energy supply infrastructure into the training of electricians to undertake the installation and maintenance of Electric Vehicle charging stations at its Moorabbin campus.
About the initiative
In 2022, Holmesglen Institute installed two large carports in the car park of its Moorabbin campus. The roofs of these carports are made up of photovoltaic panels, which generate electricity that is stored in batteries adjacent to the carport. The electricity stored in these batteries is then used by motorists to charge their vehicles when they are visiting the campus to take classes or attend the Holmesglen Private Hospital.
Demand for electric vehicle charging stations has risen sharply and Holmesglen has worked with the Electrical Trades Union, the electric vehicle association, electrical contractors and Energy Safe Victoria to develop and pilot the Course in Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure up to 22kW. This program is structured to provide electricians with the skills and knowledge to install and provide ongoing maintenance for electric vehicle charging stations.
Outcomes and next steps
This course has enabled Victoria’s electricians to gain the skills required to enable them to install and maintain Electric Vehicle charging stations across the state. It complements the programs Holmesglen offers in the design and installation of photovoltaic panels and battery storage and is creating a new group of electricians who a working with the new energy technologies that are supporting Victoria’s transition to a clean economy.
The capability of Holmesglen’s renewable energy trainers will enable them to quickly adopt and develop training programs that utilise the latest technologies for the generation and storage of renewable electricity. This mindset will also be passed onto the next generation of electrical apprentices who undertake their apprenticeship in renewable energy at Holmesglen Institute.
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