Home of the Northern Ireland parliament in Belfast, Stormont has recently undergone a major refurbishment, including a completely new plumbing and heating system that provides catering and washing facilities on a daily basis for over 1000 people. The building itself has changed little over the years (it was opened in 1932) and therefore presented an interesting design and installation challenge. 

Cork based cellulose insulation manufacturer Ecocel has won a bronze Green Apple award, the prestigious international award for the built environment and architectural heritage. The award was presented to Ecocel’s managing director John Egan at a ceremony on 8 August in London.  

Ventilation system manufacturer Aereco has announced the launch of its new Aereco Quality Standard.

Passive House + has been widely praised for its editorial content, technical information and the relevance of its advertising in a survey of AECB members.

Leading passive house design and product supplier Young Design Build has announced that it has become the Irish and UK agent for D&M solar shading, the leading German manufacturer of external shutter technology and blind solutions. Stephen Young of Young Design Build told Passive House Plus that D&M’s systems are designed to prevent overheating in buildings with large expanses of glass. 

Cork-based renewable heating, ventilation and electrical specialists Energywise Ireland has advised anyone undertaking a low energy build or upgrade project of the value of choosing a single M&E design, supply, installation and commissioning company to ensure smooth integration of all building services. 

Amvic Ireland, the Kildare-based manufacturer of insulated concrete formwork (ICF) systems for low energy and airtight buildings, is currently on site with two new ICF developments in the west of Ireland. 

Leading renewables supplier Origen Energy has launched the Robur K18 domestic gasfired heat pump to the Irish market. Robur’s gas-fired heat pumps also picked up the award for Best Energy Efficient Product at this year’s SEAI Energy Show awards.  

Saffron Acres is a social housing development in Leicester that is set to be the largest affordable passive house scheme in the country.