New training programmes 'will help drive low carbon development'

A series of ongoing training programmes is helping architects, property developers and engineers adapt low carbon and renewable technologies into their building plans, an industry expert has suggested.

EcoBuild reported this week that an initial seminar regarding building-integrated renewable energy technologies held in November 2007 proved to be successful and that two further events are now in the works for March.

According to Neil Turner of RES Heat and Power, which managed the one-day event, as consultants and architects "are hungry for knowledge" about incorporating low carbon aspects into new build programmes, a number of other seminars are now being planned across the country for 2008.

"The popularity and demand took us by surprise," he said, adding that the firm has received a number of positive comments regarding its 2007 seminar.

According to David Rosser of Welsh newspaper the Western Mail, an "overhaul" of council tax systems may create additional incentives for homeowners to invest in renewable technology and energy-efficient improvements.