Plans to develop a national centre for electric vehicle technicians are to be announced by Minister for Further Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris.
The centre will train people to repair and maintain electric vehicles as well as electric bikes, scooters, trucks, buses, vans and HGVs.
Longford Westmeath Education Training Board will play a central role in delivering the project which will be based in Mullingar, Co Westmeath.
A location has yet to be decided, however a temporary office is being set up at the LWETB's head office in Marlinstown.
Minister Harris said the development of the centre is critical to the delivery of the skills of the future.
"The transition from new diesel and petrol cars is no longer a futuristic concept. It is happening currently. Electric vehicles are outselling new petrol and diesel cars for the first time ever.
"As the number of EVs on the road increases, a workforce with the knowledge to fix and properly maintain them will be needed.
"It is clear to us we need a dedicated national centre to focus on the delivery of these key skills, while preparing for future technological advances," Mr Harris said.
SOLAS, the state agency that oversees the further education and training sector, has welcomed the news.
"The skills provided by the national centre by Longford-Westmeath Education and Training Board will be essential in supporting the green transition and in realising climate action targets" said SOLAS Chief Executive Andrew Brownlee.
