Newly Introduced Certified Training For Installers To Lead To Increased Demand For Renewable Energy

Between January and March 2008, the Renewable Energy Skills Accel Project will host 25 FETAC (the national awarding body for further education and training in Ireland) accredited training courses around the country.

Over the past two years, Renewable Energy Skills has provided training for over 600 plumbers and renewable energy installers. Up until recent weeks, however, installers had been unable to attain national certification.

"All renewable energy system installers that are registered with Sustainable Energy Ireland must undergo FETAC training by 31st March 2008. This upskilling and certification of installers will help boost confidence among consumers in the standard of installations being provided", indicated Mr. Johnny Flynn, Chairperson of Renewable Energy Skills Accel Project.

The Environmentalist, Engineer and Ennis Town Councillor continued, "Previously there has been some uncertainty among the public concerning the quality of renewable energy heating installations being provided. This has done little to help develop the sector. I am now confident, however, that the introduction of national certified training will lead to a notable increase in demand for solar panels, wind turbines, biomass, heat pumps and other micro renewable technologies."

Mr. Flynn said that any increase in demand would reinvigorate the local renewable energy sector and help Ireland to meet its Kyoto commitments.

He added that any anticipated rise in demand would be further inflated by the Government's introduction of planning exemptions for various renewable technologies, the spiralling cost of fuel and the setting of mandatory minimum renewable energy requirements in all new homes.

According to Mr. Dick Whelan, Project Manager, Renewable Energy Skills Accel Project, "The fresh impetus that has been given to the renewable energy sector, as a result of the newly introduced certification process, will help Ireland to cut down on its greenhouse gas emissions, including CO2 and methane. Under the recently adopted Bali conference roadmap, Ireland must reduce its emissions by 80% by 2050, which is a challenge we all must face together."

"Householders, business owners and local authorities across Ireland have, in many respects, set an example for other countries to follow in relation to embracing the potential of renewable energy technologies", stated Mr. Whelan.

He explained, "There are a large number of private and publicly owned companies and organisations now specialising in promoting the use of renewable energy technologies. Local Authorities, with the support of Government, also continue to support research into the benefits associated with renewable sources. This is indicative of the country's increased energy demand, as well as changing values and lifestyles."

Commenting on the upcoming training courses being provided by Renewable Energy Skills, Mr. Whelan stated, "The twenty five separate courses represent a very important opportunity for any tradesperson interested in renewable energy heating systems. The renewable energy sector is one that will continue to grow, as people become more energy efficient and the demand for alternative energy systems increases. Therefore, by receiving a FETAC accredited certificate, installers will be able to develop their business within a burgeoning sector."

The Renewable Energy Skills Accel Project, which is managed by Almir Business Ltd., was set up in 2004. Since its inception the project has provided training courses in ten locations, with trainees from all 26 counties attending. Accel, meanwhile, is an initiative of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and is managed by Skillnets Services Ltd.

Training courses begin in January and will take place at Montrath, County Laois; Ennis, County Clare; Listowel, County Kerry; and Tipperary, County Tipperary. The courses will be divided into three modules, namely Solar Thermal, Heat Pump and Biomass.

Anyone interested in attending the upcoming Renewable Energy Skills Accel Project training courses should visit www.renewableenergy.ie or email info@renewableenergy.ie. Booking is essential as places are limited.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Dick Whelan, Renewable Energy Skills (061-329744/086-8198188) and Johnny Flynn, Chairperson, Renewable Energy Skills (087-2571842) are available for interview. For further information please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 086-8534900.
- Accel is an in-company training initiative aimed at accelerating skills of people at all levels within firms in Ireland. It provides a unique opportunity for enterprises, management and staff to rapidly up skill workers to provide career progression and employability and respond to specific competitive challenges. Accel is an initiative of the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment and is managed by Skillnets Services Ltd on its behalf. The European Social Fund and the National Training Fund fund the programme. Website www.acceltraining.com
- FETAC, the Further Education and Training Awards Council is the national awarding body for further education and training in Ireland, (FETAC) gives people the opportunity to gain recognition for learning in education or training centres, in the workplace and in the community. Website www.fetac.ie

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