The third annual conference hosted by Heat Merchants, the event has gone from strength to strength and this year attracted a large attendance of architects, engineers, mechanical services consultants and developers. It forms part of Heat Merchants’ commitment to promoting new technology, increasing awareness of legislative changes and promoting knowledge across the industry.
Ten expert speakers delivered informative and knowledgeable presentations on a range of topics including regulations, technology and the future of the construction industry in Ireland. An exhibition also featured at the event, showcasing leading technology and innovations within the heating and plumbing industry, including displays from Panasonic Heating & Cooling, SolarWorld, Baxi, Firebird, Bosch Commercial, and many more.
Highlights from the day included Brian Denvir, Programme Executive at the SEAI, who spoke about solar photovoltaic for Irish homes. His presentation looked at Ireland’s current solar PV capacity (6MW installed) and growing sector interest in the technology. Several programmes and commitments such as Building Regulations Part L, Accelerated Capital Allowances and Better Energy Communities are driving interest and uptake. He rounded off a very interesting talk with information on who installs solar PV, and options when it comes to financing installation.
Other speakers included Pauric Marray from Quigg Golden who focused on how to use the Construction Contracts Act to get paid; Brian Molloy from the Health & Safety Authority who discussed safety, health and welfare at work regulations; Conor Taaffe from HomeBond who considered ‘How has SI 9 BCAR (2014) improved quality in construction?’; and David Fenton at the Environmental Protection Agency who spoke about radon in Ireland.
An ‘Introduction to District Heating’ was delivered by Pete Mills, Commercial Technical Operations Manager at Bosch Thermotechnology, while Ciara Ahern, Lecturer at DIT Bolton Street spoke to an attentive audience about saving energy through optimising hydraulic distribution in domestic space heating systems.
Ideal Standard’s Architectural Representative, Brian Molloy, talked delegates through Part M solutions in domestic and commercial buildings. His presentation talked about how Part M isn’t just about disabled access – it’s about access for everyone. Similarly, sanitary accommodation needs to be suitable for disabled people, and for everyone who uses the building.
Heat Merchants Managing Director, Alan Hogan, said, “We are very pleased with the success of the event and with the positive feedback from delegates again this year. We are also delighted to work with HomeBond to facilitate this event and help promote discussion of key issues for the industry.”
Heat Merchants is a leading provider of heating and renewable energy technology with a full range of design and support services available from its technical division. Professional services include fully indemnified heating system design, ancillary certification, commissioning and aftersales service.
T: (RoI) 090 642 4000 or (NI) 00353 90 642 4000 E: customersupport@heatmerchants.ie W: www.heatmerchants.ie
