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Galway Advertiser 2008/GA_2008_01_03/GA_0301_E1_026.pdf
26 N E W S
www.galwayadvertiser.ie
January 3 2008
Galway installers to lead to increased demand for renewable energy systems
BY JULIE TIERNEY One of Ireland's leading renewable energy associations is to deliver certified training to Galway tradespersons and professionals involved in the design and installation of renewable energy heating systems. Between January and March 2008, the Renewable Energy Skills Accel Project will host 25 FETAC accredited training courses in Ennis, Co Clare; Listowel, County Kerry; Montrath, County Laois; and Tipperary town. Over the past two years, Renewable Energy Skills has provided training for more than 600 plumbers and renewable energy installers, many from Galway city and county. Up until recent weeks, however, installers have been unable to attain national certification. "All renewable energy system installers that are registered with Sustainable Energy Ireland must undergo FETAC training by March 31, 2008. This upskilling and certification of installers will help boost confidence among consumers in the standard of installations being provided," said Fergus Blake, a founding member of the Renewable Energy Skills network. The proprietor of Shamrock Solar Energies Ltd in Ennis 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 in Galway. 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 Blake said any increase in demand would reinvigorate the local renewable energy sector and help Galway to meet its Kyoto commitments. The upcoming training courses will be divided into three modules namely solar thermal, heat pump, and biomass. Anyone interested in attending them should v i s i t www.renewableenergy.ie or email info@renewableenergy.ie. Booking is essential as places are limited.
Sarah Finnerty from Cloonkeenkerrill and Shane Noone from Westside enjoy a fantastic night out at the Japanese Popstars gig at the Cellar bar on Saturday night.