As Europe accelerates its path to climate neutrality, the role of heat pumps in decarbonising buildings is growing. However, meeting climate targets will depend not only on technology but also on equipping the workforce with the right skills. This was the focus of the webinar “Heat Pump Skills in Action: Safety, Craft, and Planning for the Energy Transition,” hosted by the European Heat Pump Association (EHPA) and co-organised with the LIFE projects SKILLSAFE EU, HeatCraftHP, and KnowHowHP.
With a shortage of installers and growing system complexity, upskilling has become a critical element of the EU's energy transition strategy. Felix Rohn from the European Commission’s DG Employment outlined how skills development is being embedded in EU policy through initiatives like the Union of Skills, the Pact for Skills, and new Net Zero Industry Academies. These academies aim to deliver standardised training across green tech sectors, while the upcoming European Skills Observatory will support better alignment of training with labour market needs.
The SKILLSAFE EU project, presented by Miranda Groot Zwaaftink (NVKL), focuses on the safe handling of R290 (propane) in residential heat pumps. As the use of natural refrigerants grows, the project has developed safety guidelines for R290 monoblock systems, with materials for split systems in development. A pilot training programme is currently underway in several countries. “These heat pumps are really safe, if you follow the proper instructions. Safety starts with knowledge,” said Groot.
Prof. Wilko Rohlfs (RWTH Aachen University) introduced the HeatCraftHP project, which aims to improve practical installation skills. He stressed that even skilled professionals can make errors if hydraulic system design is not carefully planned. To address this, the project is creating digital tools like a Hydraulic Balancing Simulator, helping both installers and users to understand system design and flow optimisation.
KnowHowHP, presented by Tobias Hatt and Assoc. Prof. Fabian Ochs, tackles the challenges of deploying heat pumps in existing multi-family buildings. The project promotes collaboration between planners, consultants, and installers to take a whole-system approach to renovation and system design. Case studies show that targeted improvements can significantly reduce heat pump sizing. “The answer shouldn’t be ‘it doesn’t work.’ It should be ‘yes – it’s possible, but here’s what you need to change,’” said Hatt.
All three projects, supported under the EU’s LIFE programme, reflect a shared view: building a skilled workforce is essential for the successful deployment of heat pumps and for achieving Europe’s broader energy and climate goals.
