The 4th National Renewable Energy Heating Conference is taking place in Bunratty, County Clare today.The key focus of this year’s conference, which features a keynote address from Mr. Tom Parlon, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation, is 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. Michael Kitt, Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and TD for Galway East, is also addressing the conference.
Mr. Dick Whelan of Renewable Energy Skills Skillnet (RESS) explained that the provision of quality products and services to the consumer was crucial to the continued success of any industry. He continued, ‘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’.
