Plumbing organisations are keen that their members take advantage of opportunities in the green economy.

People who have passed plumbing courses are being urged to learn how to install the latest technologies in order to meet the growing demand for green energy appliances that save water and money.

Chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering Blane Judd said that plumbers can play a key role in advising householders about the latest and best energy saving appliances.

He said: "Plumbing and heating professionals should be the first point of call for customers looking to save the environment and save money.

"Qualified plumbing and heating professionals provide a high quality service and have a bigger part to play in helping to make their homes more energy efficient by reviewing existing installations and advising on new technologies."

Patrick Murray, head of policy at the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC), said that his organisation was committed to ensuring that plumbers had the latest green energy skills.

He said: "Apart from being determined to lead the whole industry on sustainability issues, APHC also seeks to ensure its members are equipped with the full range of available and emerging industry knowledge, enabling them to thrive in the green economy."

Plumbers who complete green energy courses will gain the knowledge to be able to install efficient heating systems such as ground and air source heat pumps, biomass, under floor hot water heating systems and rainwater harvesting.

Becoming qualified through green energy courses to install renewable power appliances will benefit plumbers as they will be able to offer a more comprehensive service to their customer base and this is likely to increase their profits.

Energy efficient plumbers are sure to be in demand as there is a shortage of tradesmen with the necessary skills to install sustainable technologies, according to a report by the built environment organisation, the Building Research Establishment.

Richard Baines, director of sustainable development at the housing association and regeneration agency, told the Guardian that more tradesmen should follow the example of multi-skilled engineer Andy Parker.

"We need many more people with his range of skills to install and maintain zero-carbon systems," said The Black Country Housing Group director.

The newspaper reported that Andy Parker is a multitalented Midlands-based engineer who has completed electrical courses and plumbing courses as well as being an accredited gas fitter.

Every new home should be zero-carbon by 2016 and all homes should be energy efficient by 2030, according to government expectations.