UWTSD's Innovative Training Programme Elevates Carmarthenshire to the Forefront of Energy-Efficient Building Design
In a significant move towards sustainable construction, the University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s (UWTSD) Construction Innovation Centre (CWIC) proudly unveils its latest training initiative, ‘Efficiency without Compromise’, as part of the Construct Net Zero Cymru programme.
This pioneering, year-long initiative is set to revolutionise the construction landscape in Carmarthenshire by ingraining the principles and techniques of the Passivhaus standard into the local building ethos.
‘Efficiency without Compromise’ specifically caters to professionals involved in designing and constructing energy-efficient buildings. The programme offers two unique courses: the Certified Passivhaus Designer and the Certified Passivhaus Tradesperson, both crafted and delivered by Coaction, a renowned, not-for-profit organisation with a 12-year pedigree in superior Passivhaus training. These courses aim to cover an extensive curriculum, from building science and energy efficiency to more nuanced topics like airtightness, ventilation, and passive-solar design. Participants will also benefit from hands-on practical sessions as part of CWIC’s ‘Not Business as Usual’ project, gaining access to specialised tools and software designed to enhance their understanding and ability to optimise building energy performance.
In addition to these offerings, the coming year will see the development of a bespoke course aimed at individuals in maintenance, building, and facilities management roles. This comprehensive training approach will be supplemented with lectures, webinars, and demonstrations, showcasing successful regional case studies.
In alignment with Carmarthenshire County Council’s commitment to constructing new schools to Passivhaus standards, this fully funded training programme is tailored for those residing or working in Carmarthenshire. Target audiences include architects, engineers, trades and contractors, facilities management staff, building inspectors, further and higher education students and staff, and community groups. This initiative represents a monumental step for Carmarthenshire, positioning it as a leader in sustainable and energy-efficient housing and building practices within the UK.
Gareth Evans, Head of CWIC said: “As we embark on this transformative journey with the ‘Efficiency without Compromise’ initiative, I am thrilled at the prospect of what we can achieve together. This programme is more than just a training course; it’s a gateway to a sustainable future for the region. Here at CWIC, we are dedicated to fostering a new era of buildings that harmonise with our environment. I am confident that through this initiative, Carmarthenshire will not only embrace the principles of the Passivhaus standard but also become a beacon of energy-efficient and sustainable construction practices. The opportunity to lead this change and make a tangible impact in our community is a responsibility that we at CWIC are excited to undertake.”
Funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up programme and supported by Carmarthenshire County Council, these courses are a testament to our commitment to fostering skills and expertise in sustainable building practices.
Cllr. Aled Vaughan Owen, Carmarthenshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Decarbonisation and Sustainability said:
“The Council is committed to tackling climate change, the launch of the ‘Efficiency without Compromise’ initiative is an exciting example of how education, training and construction can facilitate practical change. I welcome the focus of the project by University of Wales Trinity Saint David’s in supporting our communities to lead on innovation in construction practices and ensuring Carmarthenshire continues to provide leadership in helping to mitigate against the causes of climate change”.
Courses, starting this spring with the Certified Passivhaus Tradespersons course and in early March for the Certified Passivhaus Designer course, represent a significant stride towards enhancing our regional construction capabilities.
Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring fair access to this valuable training. To qualify for funding, participants need to be based in Carmarthenshire or involved in a local project within the authority. For further information or to enrol, please contact Julie Evans, the project’s manager at CWIC, either by phone at 01792 481273, via email at julie.evans@uwtsd.ac.uk, or by completing the enquiry form
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071