This programme focuses particularly on the recommendations set out in NSAI SR54 “Code of Practice – Methodology for the Energy Efficient Retrofit of Existing Dwellings” and is divided into 5 distinct modules.

The aim of this programme is to develop a technical understanding of the issues relating to the energy efficient retrofit of dwellings. The programme will focus on retrofitting the building fabric and services systems while providing some underpinning principles of building physics.

• Develop an understanding of the issues around energy, building regulations and certification schemes in relation to dwellings
• Understand the processes relating to the thermal properties and heat loss mechanisms pertaining to dwellings
• Appraise the building envelope and recommend potential retrofitting solutions
• Understand space heating, water heating and ventilation systems and their impact on energy performance.
• Differentiate between a range of thermal and electrical energy generation solutions suitable for retrofitting into dwellings

Module 1 – Near Zero Energy Building

At the end of this module delegates should be able to:

• Appraise principles of NZEB design and construction of dwellings
• Differentiate between different Energy Certifications Schemes
• Devise retrofitting solutions that comply with the Building Regulations Part L & Part F
• Interpret information provided in low energy retrofit case studies

Module 2 – Basic Building Physics relating to heat loss and storage

At the end of this module delegates should be able to:

• Explain the different heat transfer processes as they apply to the building envelope
• Calculate the U-Values of building envelope elements
• Identify thermal bridging problems and propose potential retrofitting solutions
• Identify air permeability problems and propose potential retrofitting solutions
• Describe problems associated with condensation in dwellings

Module 3 – Building Fabric

At the end of this module delegates should be able to:

• Appraise the building envelope and its role as the primary climatic modifier
• Differentiate between potential construction details suitable for retrofitting
• Compare potential insulation retrofitting options for dwellings
• Examine a range of insulation materials suitable for retrofitting dwellings
• Interpret the effect of different insulation retrofitting solutions on the building envelope properties in terms of; thermal mass, air permeability and interstitial condensation
• Examine the best practice retrofitting treatment for each building envelope element
• Discuss thermal bridging in terms of its consequences and prediction of the heat loss associated with thermal bridging
• Differentiate between the products associated with; airtightness, vapour control & windtightness
• Develop solutions for the retrofitting of windows in dwellings 

Module 4 – Building Services; mechanical systems in buildings

At the end of this module delegates should be able to:

• Describe the processes of ventilation in dwellings
• Distinguish between ventilation and airtightness 
• Solve a range of ventilation problems using psychrometric charts
• Appraise natural and mechanical technical solutions for retrofitting ventilation in dwellings
• Differentiate between different space heating solutions for dwellings
• Examine heat generation methods and potential retrofitting solutions
• Identify domestic water heating technologies and potential retrofitting solutions
• Describe controls associated with space heating and water heating systems

Module 5 – Renewable Energy, thermal and electricity generation  

At the end of this module delegates should be able to:

• Differentiate between a range of thermal energy generation solutions suitable for retrofitting into dwellings, particularly; heat pumps, solar thermal, small scale CHP, biomass
• Examine the feasibility of thermal energy generation solutions in terms of energy and cost
• Differentiate between a range of electrical energy generation solutions suitable for retrofitting into dwellings, particularly; solar PV, wind turbines, small scale CHP
• Examine the feasibility of electrical energy generation solutions in terms of energy and cost 

Engineers or professionals who wish to improve their expertise in the area of energy retrofitting of dwellings should attend this comprehensive programme which is fully aligned with NSAI SR54 “Code of Practice – Methodology for the Energy Efficient Retrofit of Existing Dwellings.

This is a virtual classroom in which participants will require access to a webcam and microphone for live sessions with the trainer throughout the day. Participants will receive a login code via email.

This course will consist of 5 modules delivered across 5 consecutive weeks from 9:30 am-5:00 pm commencing 12th March – 23rd April.

Note: There may be an opportunity to undertake separate modules however it is strongly advised that the entire programme is undertaken as all modules delivered are considered essential components of Energy Efficiency. For further information on individual modules, please contact the CPD Training Team.

We are committed to providing delegates with the most relevant and up-to-date information. Therefore, the content of our CPD courses is continuously revised and updated periodically by our trainers.

• “Really enjoyed this programme, lots of information which was very relevant. Overall excellent course.”
• “An extremely informative programme with up-to-date information and useful notes that I will no doubt refer to on an ongoing basis.”

Confirmation is subject to event fee being finalised. Payment of course fee covers one participant’s access only. For online courses, screen share is not permitted, and each delegate must join with their own device. Sharing login details or course materials is not permitted. Cancellation fees calculated at 50% of the estimated total bill will be charged for confirmed bookings cancelled less than 5 working days prior to the date of the planned event. A replacement person is welcome to attend, this must be requested via email at least one working day before the course commences, otherwise the replacement attendee won’t be admitted, and the original attendee will be charged in full. Be aware that rate differences might apply to members and non-members. Cancellations made the day prior to an event will be charged 75% of the total estimated bill. No-shows will be charged the full fee. All cancellations must be confirmed in writing by email. Engineers Ireland will not be liable for any costs in the event of a course being re-scheduled. This applies, but is not limited, to any travelling, subsistence or consequential expenses incurred by delegates. No recordings of the course should be made by participants. Engineers Ireland and respective trainers or third-party providers will use your personal data for purposes of the training course. Where applicable, you may also be notified of future learning events specifically relevant to the topic of this course. For more details about your personal data processing and your data subject rights please visit our Privacy Policy here or e-mail cpdtraining@engineersireland.ie.