Renewable Energy Skills Skillnet (RESS) has kicked-off a two day national conference in Clare.

The 4th National Renewable Energy Heating Conference is taking place at The Shannon Shamrock Conference Centre, Bunratty, today and tomorrow.

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

National and international experts have been lined-up to discuss its importance and benefits in the design, supply and installation of renewable energy heating technologies, both in Ireland and abroad.

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Delegates are also set to hear key addresses by Tom Parlon, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation and Environment Minister Michael Kitt.

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

He said: "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."

Mr Whelan said the 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," he added.

(PR/JM)