Before this course, I was inclined to encourage everyone that was carrying out retrofit works to strive for compliance with the Building Regulations. I now have a better understanding that the Building Regulations cannot always be applied to traditional buildings. I also have a better understanding on how the use of computer models such as DEAP to predict energy use in traditional buildings is not very accurate as the default values of DEAP are often significantly different to measured energy use. Rather than relying on default values, an understanding of renovation materials and traditional materials must always be considered.

As a Building Control Officer I am aware that Building Regulations are primarily focused on the design and construction of new buildings as opposed to the retrofit and the renovation of traditional buildings. From completion of this course, I have a far better understanding of how modern materials and modern practices cannot simply be imposed onto older buildings that were designed on entirely different principles, where issues of moisture movement and risk are different from those found in new construction.

The engagement of communities in understanding energy sources and local renewable energy opportunities, is critical in a transition to a low-carbon society. I enrolled in the TUS Certificate in Community Energy Development to enhance my knowledge of sustainable energy technologies/solutions available to communities, and to learn from others participating in this area. This course was engaging, challenging and informative and was delivered by a flexible blended model. In particular, I found the site visits highly instructive and the on-line lectures engaging and sociable.

As a One Stop Shop, our purpose at Electric Ireland Superhomes is to empower our customers to achieve warmer, healthier, low-carbon homes. As we continue to expand nationwide and deliver on this mission, development of our people is key. The TUS Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management has been a fantastic support in building the technical knowledge and capability of our team in a way that is flexible, practical and engaging.

The modular nature of the TUS Higher Diploma in Residential Energy Retrofit Management gives us the flexibility to tailor the courses to individual development plans. The feedback from our team members has been positive, with the blended delivery model, along with the practical site visits, complementing and enhancing their on-the-job experience designing and implementing home energy retrofit solutions for our customers.

The Certificate in Community Energy Development is highly recommended for any community energy groups. The course enabled students easy access to presentations, good reference materials and know how. All external presenters were very knowledgeable and helpful. The 1st semester was a good foundation on the basics of energy efficiency, renewables and the basic understanding of measurement, calculations, etc. The 2nd semester included excellent information on what’s required for community based projects.

The SESYM course overall is packed with opportunities to allow you to flourish into a profound and recognised professional in the field. You will feel a strong level of support from start to finish, be it from past students, lecturers, energy professionals etc. whom are involved in the alumni, you will never feel alone.