Upskilling for net zero: Fife opens first hydrogen skills centre for Engineers

The UK’s journey to net zero just took a practical step forward, Fife College has officially opened the country’s first dedicated hydrogen training centre for gas engineers. Based at the Levenmouth Campus, the centre will train over 100 Gas Safe registered professionals this year, giving them the hands-on skills to work with hydrogen in real homes.

This specialist training supports SGN’s H100 Fife project, which will supply green hydrogen to households via a brand-new network built for purpose. Engineers will learn to install, commission, and maintain hydrogen appliances, gaining a hydrogen competency on their Gas Safe record.

“Opening this centre is a huge moment not just for SGN, but for the wider energy transition,” said SGN CEO Simon Kilonback. “We’re proud to be working closely with the local community to make hydrogen heat a reality, and this centre is key to unlocking the skills we need to get there.”

The facility includes training bays and equipment from major manufacturers including Baxi, Worcester Bosch, Clean Burner Systems, Bosch Home Appliances, and MeteRSit, ensuring engineers gain experience with the real systems they’ll be working on.

The centre is the result of two years of partnership between SGN and Fife College, developed in collaboration with key bodies including IGEM, BPEC, and Energy & Utility Skills.

“Fife College is proud to be leading the way in clean energy skills,” said Principal Jim Metcalfe. “This centre gives engineers the tools they need to support a safer, greener future. It’s a model for how industry and education can work together to make real progress.”

Engineers from SGN, Baxi, Worcester Bosch and Warmworks will take part, along with Fife Council staff, ensuring a locally skilled workforce is ready for the hydrogen conversion ahead.

Read more: First hydrogen training centre opens