Unemployed South African youth with a passion for energy efficiency and green‑skills should act now – the deadline to apply for a national training programme is only a few weeks away. South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) is offering a chance to start a career in building energy performance.
What is the SANEDI EPC Skills Development Programme 2026?
The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Skills Development Programme (SDP) aims to train 300 learners in selected provinces. It focuses on data collection, analysis and practical skills needed for energy‑efficiency assessments in buildings.
Who can apply?
- South African citizens aged 18‑35
- Currently unemployed
- Matric (Grade 12) or an NQF Level 4 equivalent qualification
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy at Grade 12/NQF Level 4
- Willing to attend the full 10‑day training period
Applicants must also be ready to travel to participating TVET colleges in the provinces listed below.
Where will the training take place?
Training will be delivered at TVET colleges in:
- KwaZulu‑Natal
- Gauteng
- Western Cape
- Mpumalanga
- Limpopo
- Northern Cape
- Free State
What will you gain?
- Basic technical knowledge of Energy Performance Certificates
- Practical experience in building energy‑use data collection
- Skills in data capture, verification and quality assurance
- Exposure to work with Energy Service Companies, energy consultants and EPC‑related organisations
- Potential pathway to longer‑term qualifications such as the Occupational Certificate: Energy Efficiency Technician (NQF Level 6)
Note: The 10‑day course does not guarantee a place in the 12‑month advanced training. Only the top‑performing learners will be selected for that next phase.
Important funding details
- No monthly stipend is provided
- Transport allowance is not guaranteed
- You must cover any travel or personal costs yourself
How to apply – step by step
- Check your eligibility: age, citizenship, unemployment status, qualification and maths requirement.
- Gather documents: a certified copy of your Matric/NQF Level 4 qualification and a certified copy of your ID.
- Open the official application page: SANEDI EPC SDP Graduate Training Programme – Apply Here
- Complete the online form: fill in all personal and educational details accurately.
- Upload the required documents: ensure the scans are clear and legible.
- Submit before 18 September 2026: early submission avoids last‑minute technical problems.
Tips to improve your chances
- Apply as soon as possible; early applications are less likely to be affected by website overload.
- Double‑check that the information on your form matches the details on your supporting documents.
- Highlight any experience in field work, teamwork or data handling in the optional comments section.
- Be prepared to travel to the TVET college assigned to your province.
- Plan your transport and personal expenses ahead of time, as no allowance is guaranteed.
Next steps after you apply
SANEDI will contact successful applicants within 30 days of the closing date. If you hear nothing by then, you can consider your application unsuccessful. Keep an eye on the email address and phone number you provided. Beware of anyone asking for money to secure a spot – the programme does not require any payment.
Why green‑skills matter
South Africa is expanding its green economy, and energy‑efficiency expertise is in growing demand. This programme offers a solid entry point, but you should also explore other opportunities offered by the SETA SA platform, which lists learnerships, internships and qualifications across all 21 SETAs.
Conclusion
If you have the required maths background and can manage travel costs, the SANEDI EPC Skills Development Programme could be a valuable first step into the energy‑efficiency sector. Apply before 18 September 2026, and use the SETA SA resources to keep looking for additional training and career pathways.
