Barnet Energy Skills Training

In January 2026 Power Up North London launched its first Energy Skills training course in Barnet. The aim was to reduce fuel poverty by creating local energy champions who can effect change through their own networks and link people to support services in the borough.

Funding and Delivery
Funded by Barnet Council’s Community Energy Fund, the course was held over two half days of presentations, interactive sessions, quizzes and a ‘take-home exercise’.

Participants learned how to waste less energy and reduce bills, the importance of living in homes free from cold, damp and overheating, how to access discounts and services, support struggling neighbours and seek further training and job opportunities. 

Seven participants were recruited through Finchley Foodbank and a local organisation called BOOST - the format proved very successful and enjoyable.

Benefits and Impact
Packs of LED bulbs and radiator reflector panels were given out as simple and immediate ways to reduce energy use, and there was training in behaviour-changing measures that deliver financial and carbon savings such as better use of heating controls.

Power Up North London will look to repeat the course in Barnet with more effective recruitment. We grateful to Barnet Council for its support and feels there is a clear demand for community-based energy training to create a network of champions in the borough. It was delighted that one participant has been inspired to take the NEA level 3 Energy Awareness course to become a qualified energy adviser.