Foster Visits First NI 'Passive House'

Energy Minister Arlene Foster has been visiting Northern Ireland’s first 'Passive House'.

She said energy efficiency had never been more important.

The Minister was visiting the property, a retirement bungalow in Omagh, to experience first-hand the building which has achieved 'Zero Carbon' status.

A 'Passive House' is a building certified as being highly energy efficient, meaning it requires little energy to achieve a comfortable temperature all year round.

Minister Foster said: "As well as saving money, energy efficiency results in a reduction in energy consumption and carbon emissions.

"Fluctuating energy prices both for gas and electricity mean that consumers are constantly looking for new ways to cut energy bills to save money. Energy efficiency can make a real difference to things that we all care about. Everyone wants a warm, healthy home and lower energy costs to help balance budgets."

William Moffitt, of builders Moffitt and Robinson Construction Ltd, said: "We initially wanted to have a building that had as low a carbon footprint as possible, while meeting our client’s requirements. As we examined ways to do this, for example examining areas where heat could be lost and heat could be saved, water harvesting and grey water heat recovery, we realised that it would be possible to achieve zero carbon status and, ultimately, Passive House certification.

"I believe the next challenge facing the building industry will be to successful retrofit existing housing stock to raise the insulation standard and lower the carbon footprint, because most of the houses here today will still be here in 100 years’ time."

Last week the Energy Minister launched the £25m Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme.

The scheme is intended to provide support for non-domestic properties wanting to switch from conventional heating to renewable heating solutions such as biomass, heat pumps and solar thermal.

The RHI is expected to be extended to the domestic market by Autumn 2013.

(IT/GK)