Renewable Energy Skills has announced it will host the 4th National Renewable Energy Heating Conference in The Shannon Shamrock Conference Centre, Bunratty, County Clare in October.

The key focus of this year's conference will be the promotion of quality assurance within the renewable energy heating industry.

National and international experts will explore its importance and benefits in the design, supply and installation of renewable energy heating technologies both in Ireland and abroad.

Dick Whelan of Renewable Energy Skills said the provision of quality products and services to the consumer was crucial to the continued success of any industry.

"There has been some major steps forward recently taken in the Irish renewable energy sector, including the introduction of installer accreditation and minimum quality performance standards for products.

"At present, however, this is only applicable in the case of installations that are grant aided. The phased introduction of building energy ratings for housing and commercial buildings is another positive initiative," he said.

-- Advertisement --

Mr Whelan said that the upcoming conference would review where the renewable energy sector with regard to quality assurance in Ireland.

"We will also examine European best practice and highlight improvements that can be made for the future across the various technologies.

"Meanwhile, conference delegates will have the opportunity to celebrate success within the industry at the Gala Award Dinner, which will feature the presentation of FETAC certificates to qualified renewable energy professionals from across the country," he added.

Fergus Blake, of Clare-based Shamrock Solar Energies Ltd, a founding member of the RES network, said: "This conference offers a unique opportunity to all stakeholders in Ireland's building energy sector.

"It brings together professional and trades in the industry, architects, engineers, industry leaders, policy makers, suppliers and academics to share information, and to exchange ideas on technology trends and what is happening in Europe."

The 4th National Renewable Energy Heating Conference will feature a keynote address from Tom Parlon, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation.

Other speakers include national and European experts on Solar thermal, Heatpump, Biomass, Energy policy, Microgeneration and Low carbon housing.

Meanwhile, the Renewable Energy Skills Skillnet confirmed that it has had a record year to date as regards training numbers while its membership base has grown considerably.

The key objective of the network continues to be the provision of support and training to all trades and professionals who influence the energy performance of buildings.

RES offer FETAC accredited courses in Building Energy Rating, Biomass, Solar and Heatpump technologies as well as training in a wide range of other related topics.

Renewable Energy Skills is funded by members companies and the Training Networks Programme initiative of Skillnets Ltd, which is funded from the national training fund through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

(PR/JM)