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Which Electrical Qualifications Do I Need in 2026?

  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read
Man in navy shirt uses tablet in electrical training center. EV charging sign, solar panel, and wiring displayed. Technical setting.

If you are an electrician planning your next step, this is the right question to ask.


The industry is changing. Regulations are evolving. Low-carbon work is growing. That means the electrical qualifications in 2026 that matter most are the ones that keep you compliant, confident, and ready for new opportunities.


At Greenpays, we want to make that journey clearer.


Why electrical qualifications in 2026 matter more than ever


The biggest shift is around competence. The latest EAS guidance makes clear that, from 1st October 2026, electricians carrying out periodic inspection, testing, certification, and low-carbon installations such as EV charging and solar PV must hold the correct Level 3 qualifications and show ongoing competence.


That matters because qualifications are no longer just “nice to have”. In many cases, they are becoming essential for staying compliant and maintaining scheme membership.


“The best time to upskill is before the rush, not during it.”

The core qualifications to prioritise


1. 18th Edition Wiring Regulations


BS 7671 remains the national standard for electrical installations in the UK, and the IET has confirmed that Amendment 4:2026 is the next major update. The Brown Book edition will remain valid until 15 October 2026, but electricians still need to stay up to date.


This qualification is the foundation. It supports compliance, credibility, and safe practice.


2. Inspection and Testing


If you carry out Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) or similar work, inspection and testing should be high on your list. Updated EAS guidance highlights this area as one of the most important from October 2026 onwards.


This is especially important if you want to move into higher-value, compliance-led work.


3. EV Charger Installation


EV charging is no longer a niche. Official UK statistics show there were 116,052 EV chargers in the country as of 1 January 2026, and government demand estimates point to 250,000 to 550,000 public chargers by 2030.


For electricians, that means real demand, real projects, and real commercial opportunity.


4. Solar PV Installation


Solar PV remains one of the key low-carbon work categories recognised in the EAS qualifications framework. If you want to work in renewables, this is one of the strongest places to build skills.


5. PAT Testing


PAT Testing is often overlooked, but it is a smart way to broaden your service offer. It supports compliance-focused work and can help businesses reduce outsourcing costs.


So, what should you do first?


That depends on your goals.


If your priority is compliance, start with:

If your priority is growth, look at:


If your priority is both, build a pathway that covers core compliance first, then specialist green skills.


A practical route forward


At Greenpays, we recommend keeping it simple:


  • Start with your compliance base

  • Add specialist skills that match demand

  • Choose qualifications that open more doors, not more confusion



Ready to move forward?


The right electrical qualifications in 2026 can help you stay compliant, protect your reputation, and grow your earning potential.


If you are ready to take the next step, explore our commercial City & Guilds-accredited Greenpays courses and book onto a course that fits your goals.



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