Foster attends Northern Ireland's first energy efficiency fair

Enterprise Minister, Arlene Foster, attended the first ever Northern Ireland Energy Efficiency Fair and Seminar, in Belfast today.

The event was hosted jointly by Action Renewables and South Eastern Regional College. The first of its kind in Northern Ireland, the Energy Efficiency Fair aimed to promote training courses on energy efficiency, renewable energy and energy management, to businesses.

Over 50 exhibitors of renewable energy products were represented at the fair, displaying renewable energy equipment such as solar panels and heat pumps. During the visit, Arlene Foster met with exhibitors and attendees, to see the wide range of technology on offer to help householders and businesses improve their energy efficiency.

The fair also included seminars throughout the day, during which expert speakers, such as Professor Neill Hewitt, University of Ulster, discussed energy management and renewable technologies.

Speaking at the event at Belfast’s Ramada Hotel, Arlene Foster said: “In Northern Ireland, we are almost wholly dependent on the import of fossil fuels, and therefore need to plan for a sustainable energy future that will also deliver on government targets.

“I am pleased to see over 50 exhibitors here today - evidence that there is a growing interest and knowledge of energy efficiency and renewable energy technology. Today’s event is a valuable resource for both individuals and businesses seeking information about renewable energy. This is more important that ever in the current economic recession, as local businesses seek to reduce operating costs, where possible.

“It is clear from what I have seen at today’s exhibition, that renewable energy, energy efficiency and energy management, offer significant opportunities in terms of economic development and the potential for skills development. Indeed, my Department currently chairs a Sustainable Energy Inter-Departmental Working Group (SEIDWG) which is setting up a sub group to examine the potential for green job creation in Northern Ireland.”

John Ross, South Eastern Regional College, said: “At the College, we are committed to working closely with businesses to deliver courses that accommodate the rigours of the changing face of energy. Businesses are being challenged like never before, with demands on energy cost, efficiencies and performance, and new legislation demanding compliance across many areas. This requires a pro-active education system to advise, communicate, train and consult with business and industry as these changes are so far reaching.

“South Eastern Regional College has set up direct working links with the local Universities and engages in widespread staff training in renewables and energy management. Strong links have been established with European and Irish Institutes working on collaborative projects and developing best practice. The Further / Higher Eduction collaboration project on renewables has staff working with many differing businesses, providing training, design and consultative roles to companies and clusters of interested companies.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Northern Ireland Energy Fair was jointly hosted by Action Renewables and South Eastern Regional College at the Ramada Hotel, Belfast on 24 March 2009, as part of a new programme of events aimed at identifying opportunities for energy savings and energy-generated technologies.
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