The recent extension of the Benchmark Scheme to incorporate solar and air source heat pumps is a significant development in the plumbing industry. It confirms the green energy initiative as an established facts on the ground technology that's set to become a major water heating system throughout the UK.This also is positive and secure news for current trainee plumbers and all those who are seeking to change career or looking to start their working lives, training to be a plumber within the trade skills industry. The growing optimism for the slow climb out of recession allied to the recognition of the important role renewables will have on plumbing training and implementation of heat pumps courses from now on is reflected in the tell tale addition to the Benchmark Scheme.Leading South East England skills training centres such as AbleSkills, have already put into place dedicated teaching classrooms for instructing in the correct installation of air and ground source heat pumps as well as Solar courses. All first time students will be required to take the entry level City & Guilds NVQ Plumbing 6129 Technical Certificate Level 2 - and onto Level 3 - at the start of their qualification training.The nationally recognised Benchmark Member Scheme places responsibilities on both manufacturers and installers to ensure best practice in installation, commissioning and servicing of domestic heating and hot water products in line with Building Regulations in England and Wales. It is managed and promoted by the Heating and Hotwater Industry Council (HHIC)Since its launch in 1999, the Benchmark scheme has seen to have provided a great deal of stability to the heating industry as the ideal way to ensure best practice in the emerging renewables market, and encourage the highest standards of installing, commissioning and servicing.As a Benchmark Licensed Installer you benefit from: