North Kent College, Training Rigs

Tonbridge, Kent

North Kent College is a further and higher education institution serving a broad student base across the Thames Gateway. Known for its commitment to delivering industry-relevant training, the college continuously invests in state-of-the-art facilities to enhance student learning and support local workforce development.

In response to the UK’s transition toward low-carbon heating technologies, North Kent College partnered with OHM Energy to develop practical renewable heating training rigs. The goal was to give students real-world experience with air source and ground source heat pump systems—skills increasingly in demand in the green energy sector.

The UK government’s decarbonisation strategy places a strong emphasis on electrified heating, particularly through heat pump technology. To prepare the next generation of installers and engineers, North Kent College recognised the need to:

• Offer hands-on training with working heat pump systems
• Support local green jobs growth by aligning courses with industry needs
• Demonstrate leadership in sustainable education and technical innovation
• Enhance employability of students entering the renewables and construction sectors

OHM Energy was chosen for our technical expertise and collaborative approach to delivering custom-built, functional training rigs tailored to educational use.

Training Rig Specifications

Air Source Heat Pump Training Rig

• 1 x Mitsubishi Ecodan Ultra Quiet W6 (6kW) Air Source Heat Pump
• 200 Litre Pressurised High-Efficiency Hot Water Cylinder
• 1 x FTC6 System Controller – For intelligent system monitoring and control
• Grade A Flow Circulating Pumps – For energy-efficient operation
• Electricity Meter – To monitor power consumption and system performance
• Magnetic Limescale Reducer – For system longevity and performance
• All Associated Pipe Work and Fittings
• New Sub Board, Water Main, and Ply Pod Structure – For safe and functional training setup

Ground Source Heat Pump Training Rig

• 1 x 5kW Ground Source Heat Pump
• 1 x System Controller
• 1 x 100 Litre Standalone Cylinder
• 1 x 40L Buffer Tank
• 1 x Small Ground Loop Array
• Underfloor Heating and/or Radiator Setup – To show real-life heating distribution
• 2 x Grade A Flow Circulating Pumps
• Anti-Vibration Feet – For noise and motion control
• 1 x Electricity Meter
• All Associated Pipe Work and Fittings
• Full Delivery of All Components

Each rig is designed for visibility, accessibility, and safe student interaction, supporting both theory and practice in renewable energy education.

By installing advanced air and ground source heat pump training rigs, North Kent College has positioned itself as a leader in green skills education. With support from OHM Energy, the college is equipping students not only with theoretical knowledge but with the hands-on experience essential for success in the renewables industry.

This case represents a powerful example of how education providers can take action now to support both environmental goals and the workforce of tomorrow.