Alabama Power team receives IREC accreditation at Energy Infrastructure Training Center

The Alabama Power team at the Energy Infrastructure Training Center in Jasper received Training Provider Accreditation from the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) for its HVAC training center, along with certification for three employees to teach IREC weatherization programs.

Four courses were approved for accreditation: Energy Auditor, Crew Leader, Retrofit Installer Technician and Quality Control Inspector.

“Our team has worked diligently to share this program with IREC, including hosting the IREC team for several on-site reviews with both management and students,” said Jim Goolsby, an energy infrastructure training analyst. “We’re so proud of this program and are grateful that IREC understands our commitment to this program and preparing our workforce to support weatherization efforts in the future.”

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) aims to enhance the energy efficiency of homes for low-income families, thereby reducing their energy costs and improving their living conditions. This program has particular impact in Alabama, where many families face high energy burdens because of inefficient housing. By providing weatherization services, such as insulation, air sealing, and heating and cooling system upgrades, WAP helps lower energy bills and improve indoor comfort and safety for these households.

In Alabama, the program’s benefits are amplified through collaboration with Alabama Power and the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), which administers the program at the state level. ADECA ensures the program is effectively implemented, targeting those who need it most and maximizing the impact of federal funds.

Alabama Power contributes to workforce development by offering weatherization and building science training. This initiative supports the implementation of energy-efficient measures and helps build a skilled workforce in the state. By equipping individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge, Alabama Power fosters job creation and career advancement opportunities in the energy efficiency sector, thereby contributing to the economic development in the region.

To further enhance the quality and credibility of training programs, the Weatherization Assistance Program requires training providers to be accredited by IREC. Becoming an IREC Accredited Training Provider involves meeting rigorous standards for curriculum, instructional methods and assessment processes. This accreditation ensures that training programs deliver high-quality education, equipping trainees with industry-recognized skills and knowledge essential for effective weatherization applications.

“The Alabama Power team at the Energy Infrastructure Training Center has demonstrated excellence in meeting IREC standards through their commitment to comprehensive, high-quality training delivery, well-organized operations and procedures, and robust systems for continuous improvement – showcasing how quality credentialing programs prepare a skilled workforce for the growing clean energy economy,” said Matthew Harris, director of workforce training and community engagement at IREC.

To learn more about the Alabama Energy Infrastructure Training Center, check out this story on Alabama News Center. To learn more about IREC, click here.