EPC Practitioner Skills Programme

The Institute of Energy Professionals Africa (IEPA) has successfully developed and implemented the EPC Practitioner Skills Programme qualification, with 17 cohorts trained to date. Our refined company structure enables us to deliver multiple projects simultaneously and effectively.

Partnership with the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure and Development (DID)

IEPA has partnered with the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure and Development (DID) to train unemployed youth, equipping them to help DID comply with the EPC Regulation. This initiative aligns with EWSETA’s mission to facilitate and coordinate skills development programmes that meet industry needs, particularly those arising from the EPC for buildings regulation.

EPC Practitioner Skills Programme

The Institute of Energy Professionals Africa (IEPA) has successfully developed and implemented the EPC Practitioner Skills Programme qualification, with 17 cohorts trained to date. Our refined company structure enables us to deliver multiple projects simultaneously and effectively.

Partnership with the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure and Development (DID)

IEPA has partnered with the Gauteng Department of Infrastructure and Development (DID) to train unemployed youth, equipping them to help DID comply with the EPC Regulation. This initiative aligns with EWSETA’s mission to facilitate and coordinate skills development programmes that meet industry needs, particularly those arising from the EPC for buildings regulation.

Target Audience

  • Unemployed youth
  • 50% female participation target
  • Matriculants with 40%+ in maths and science or NQF Level 4 Electricians or engineering graduates (mechanical, industrial, chemical)
  • Johannesburg-based to minimize travel costs

Career Pathways

The EPC Practitioner Skills Programme is an entry-level qualification that paves the way for various career opportunities in the energy industry. Successful completion awards 25 credits transferable to the Occupational Certificate: Energy Efficiency Technician (EET), enabling learners to complete one of the four required system audits and covering the basics for the full 119-credit EET qualification. This combination also opens pathways to international designations such as Certified Energy Manager (CEM) and Certified Energy Auditor (CEA).

Industry Regulations and Opportunities

In line with the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE) Regulation no. 700 (December 2020) and its update, Regulation no. 1461 (November 2022), building owners must comply with the Mandatory Display and Submission of an Energy Performance Certificate by December 2025 or face penalties up to R5 million. This creates immediate job opportunities. As the DMRE develops the National Building Energy Performance Register (NBER), it is anticipated that more building categories and smaller sizes will be included in the future, further increasing demand for qualified professionals.

Programme Activities

  • In-Person Training:
    • Soft Skills Training for EPCs and energy SMME businesses
    • Maths for Green Skills Training
    • Workplace Preparation and Life Skills
    • EPC Practitioner Skills Programme
  • On-Demand Training:
    • EPC Practitioner revision modules
    • Life skills and compliance training covering safety, first aid, employment conditions, OHS Act, consumer protection, workplace culture, harassment, health and hygiene, POPI Act, junior management, conflict resolution, decision making, report writing, and personal budgeting.
  • 12-Month Internship: Includes comprehensive training.
  • Ongoing Marketing and Management: Ensures continuous work and project management.

Quality Assurance: Continuous monitoring and evaluation of programme progress.

The EPC Practitioner Skills Programme not only provides immediate employment opportunities but also lays the foundation for further education in the green skills industry for those who wish to continue their journey.