Belgian Solar Engineering Expert to upskill Kiwis

SUBJECT: Press Release:Belgian Solar Engineering Expert to up skill Kiwi’s in Solar Technology

Waitakere City Council starts Solar Workshop for Staff

Press Release 18/07/07

New Zealand’s comparatively slow uptake of solar technology is costing New Zealanders. Solar water heating could save families many dollars a year in electricity at current prices and if it was in a third of homes it would reduce emissions in New Zealand equal to taking 250,000 cars off the road .

Belgian Solar engineering expert Eric Jansseune from EWA-Tec Ltd (www.ewa-tec.com) believes that there is a huge lack of information amongst the general public and the construction industry about solar technology in New Zealand.

The main barrier preventing uptake of solar technology here in NZ is insufficient training for academics, resource planners, building inspectors, trades people, and designers, says Jansseune.

Only one tertiary course operates on solar installation once every 2-3 months in Hamilton , costing $600 and for plumbers only. Low supply of trained solar installers creates maximum installation prices for homeowners which is not very sustainable for society in the long run.

According to Jansseune, over charging, over sizing of solar panels, poor design and workmanship are also common in New Zealand.

EWA-Tec Ltd offers training and consultancy through direct communication to homeowners, architects, engineers, tertiary institutions, planners, plumbers, iwi trusts, government departments, and other trades. EWA-Tec Ltd is able to design for domestic, commercial, industrial, and farming purposes.

The Waitakere City Council has organised its first professional training for his Staff on the 10th of July. Suitable for anyone wishing to learn more about solar hotwater heating for homes and pools , it will also provide much needed information on solar hotwater systems to installers and homeowners.

ENDS

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