Lean how to save at Energy Awareness Exhibition
Publish Date: Wednesday, 21 March 2007
Schoolchildren, homeowners, community groups and local business representatives flocked to Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council's Energy Awareness Exhibition at Dungannon Leisure Centre today (Wednesday 21st March) where they learned how to save energy through modern day renewable technologies.
Organisations such as DETI, DOE Planning Service and Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council's Building Control division provided information and advice on a range of energy related subjects and renewable technologies such as wind turbines, PV panels, solar panels, biomass boilers, glazing, thermal insulations, rainwater harvesting low energy lighting.
Grant funders included Action Renewables, Carbon Trust, NI Electricity and EGA Partnership, plus Energy Saving Trust Advice Centre, Energia and Solarcentury.
The Mayor of Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council, Councillor Jim Hamilton opened the event. He said:
"The aim of this event is to encourage us all to be more energy conscious both in our homes and workplaces. It is hoped that all those visiting will have a better understanding of how to reduce their energy bills. This can be achieved through simple housekeeping measures, or introducing the latest renewable technologies, many of which are on display here today"
Jenny Pyper, Director, Energy Division, DETI, welcomed the Council's initiative saying: "Government places a strong emphasis on renewable energy and energy efficiency and so it is encouraging to see such a wealth of information and experience here today in Dungannon.
"One government initiative being showcased is DETI's £8million Reconnect Programme. Reconnect provides grants of up to £15,000 to householders who wish to install renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and biomass boilers, to heat and power their homes. Anyone interested in introducing domestic renewable technologies can call the freephone helpline on 0800 023 4077. We all know the negative effect our energy consumption is having on the environment and so we need to take action now."
All those who attended the exhibition received a free energy saving light bulb and one lucky winner went home with an energy efficient boiler from the free prize draw.
This event was organised by Council's Building Control division as part of Dungannon 2007 - Be Part of It; a year of celebrations to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the Flight of the Earls and the Plantation of Ulster.
For information on forthcoming events, visit www.dungannon.gov.uk or telephone 028 8772 0300.
