APHCI NEWS
APHCI HAS ENGAGED WITH ENERGY MINISTER DARRAGH O’BRIEN ON THE ROLE OF CONTRACTORS IN IRELAND’S ENERGY TRANSITION... Update:
Working towards a low-carbon future
The critical role plumbing and heating contractors play in Ireland’s evolving energy and climate landscape was the subject of a recent constructive and forward-looking discussion between the Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors Ireland (APHCI) and Energy Minister Darragh O’Brien. APHCI wishes to thank Minister O’Brien for his time, openness and willingness to engage directly with the sector. The meeting provided an important opportunity to place contractors firmly at the centre of the national conversation on retrofit, low-carbon heating and climate action. Discussion focused on the realities of delivery on the ground, where plumbing and heating professionals are responsible for turning policy ambition into safe, compliant and effective outcomes in Irish homes and buildings. APHCI highlighted that as retrofit activity accelerates and new heating technologies are rolled out at scale, safety must remain
L-R: Pat Jordan, Chair, APHCI, Ken Lawrence, Ken Lawrence Plumbing, and David Gilroy, Chief Executive, APHCI, are pictured visiting Leinster House.
The transition to low-carbon heating systems requires continuous upskilling of the workforce, supported by accessible, high-quality training aligned with real- world installation conditions. APHCI reiterated that contractors are fully committed to lifelong learning, but that training pathways must be practical, well- coordinated and responsive to change.
contractors and technical specialists. This group will develop and present viable, evidence-based recommendations to Government, focused on safe delivery, workforce capacity, regulatory clarity and value for money. Pat Jordan, APHCI Chair, said, “Contractors are on the frontline of Ireland’s energy transition. Safety, skills and proper regulation must remain central to retrofit delivery, protecting households, installers and public investment. Our members are committed to playing their part, and we welcome the Minister’s openness to engaging directly with the sector on practical solutions.” APHCI views this engagement as an important step in ensuring that Ireland’s energy transition is grounded in reality, informed by experience, and delivered to the highest standards.
non-negotiable. Proper installation, commissioning and maintenance of heating and hot water systems are
APHCI confirmed that the sector is ready to meet its obligations in
essential to protect householders, installers and public investment. The Association stressed that a safety-first approach must underpin all elements of climate action in the built environment. The discussion also emphasised the importance of robust regulation and clear standards. APHCI outlined the need for consistent and enforceable regulatory frameworks that support competent contractors while preventing poor-quality or unsafe work. Clear standards provide certainty for installers, confidence for consumers and value for the state as retrofit programmes expand nationwide. Training and skills development formed another central pillar of the conversation.
supporting Government climate targets. Plumbing and heating contractors are already delivering significant emissions reductions through energy efficiency upgrades, system optimisation and the deployment of renewable and low-carbon technologies. Success will depend on partnership — between Government, regulators, training bodies, manufacturers and the workforce. The Minister was open and receptive to hearing solutions directly from the sector, recognising the value of on-the-ground expertise in shaping workable policy. In response, APHCI has established an expert working group, drawing on experienced
Want to know more?
Contact David Gilroy: E: dgilroy@aphci.ie www.aphci.ie
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