Irish home heating bills could be cut by up to 50% through greater use of solar energy 8/06/04
That is according to Paul Kellett of Sustainable Energy Ireland’s Renewable Energy Information Office’s (REIO) who was announcing details of a new free Sustainable Buildings Information Pack.
According to Mr, Kellett, REIO Technical Manager, “In the last five years Ireland’s energy demand has increased by 20%, with current spend on energy now approximately €20,000,000 per day. Almost all of this energy comes from imported fossil fuels, and over half of it from oil in particular. Burning fossil fuels to heat or to generate electricity, results in emissions of carbon dioxide which is the largest contributor to global warming and climate change”.
“Given the fluctuating oil prices, the proposed increase in electricity and the proposed introduction of a carbon tax on traditional fossil fuels including coal and oil, interest in renewable energy is understandably at an all time high. The number of established suppliers active in the Irish market place has increased in recent years. For example in 2001 we had five solar suppliers, we now have over 20. With all offering a range of high-quality and well-proven products, clearly the consumer is now spoilt for choice”.
With this in mind, SEI’s REIO has developed a Sustainable Buildings Pack to ensure that the consumer has access to the very best information regarding renewables energy, and in particular solar energy.
According to Mr. Kellett, whether in the home or at work, it is important that we all change the way we think about energy. “We have many ways to save energy and money in our homes by using energy efficient systems and appliances, and installing insulation to reduce heat loss. The next stage is to consider installing a renewable energy system in your home. Many households in Ireland are already experiencing the benefits of natural power”, he said.
The sun is a never-ending source of energy, which is silent, clean and best of all free. For example a solar water heating system is capable of providing up to 70% of your hot water needs every year. This allows you to save money on your fuel bills and help protect the environment.
The new information pack contains a wealth of practical information and advice offering:
- A series of leaflets highlighting the efficiency and cost effectiveness of both geo-thermal heat pumps and solar water heaters;
- A practical guide on the principles of passive solar design;
- Options for space heating in both the home or office by taking a closer look at the use of wood pellets, the fuel of the 21st century - wood pellet stoves are functional and efficient items of furniture for space heating;
- A free solar cd;
- Contact lists of quality suppliers; and
- A buyers guide that offers some sound and simple advice to ensure you select the right product.
To get the free pack simply telephone REIO’s Call Centre on 023 42193 and ask for a free buildings pack.
Sustainable Energy Ireland, was established on May 1st, 2002, as a statutory authority charged with promoting and assisting the development of a sustainable national energy economy and is funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 with programmes part financed by the European Union.
REIO is a national service from Sustainable Energy Ireland offering free impartial information and advice on all renewable energy technologies.
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For further information please contact:
Diarmuid O’Neill
Edelman
01-6789333 / 087-6699933
