New date for IDHEE ‘Smart Future’ conference

Following the Prime Minister’s call for a general election on Thursday 8th June, the IDHEE has moved its annual conference to Tuesday 20^th June.

David Matthews, CEO of the Institute of Domestic Heating and Environmental Engineers (IDHEE), said: “Moving the date provides a real opportunity, with a new government in place, to discuss and review where the domestic heating sector goes over the coming years; and what messages we need to take forward with the Government and the heating industry. So much is happening with the growth of smart and low carbon technologies and changes to apprenticeships. If we as a country change our approach to the buildings we use, then we can have warmer, fresher and cheaper-to-run accommodation.”

Under the theme: ‘The Smart Future’, the conference will look at how the latest smart technology will impact on the domestic central heating market; and how heating engineers can ensure they are well-placed to provide their customers with the best service.

“The growth of smart heating controls over the past few years and increasing demand from the housebuilding sector is bringing new opportunities for the heating industry and more choice for the consumer,” added David.

“Central heating is installed in around 92% of UK homes, but as connected homes and smart heating technology become more popular with householders who want to make their homes more energy efficient and be able to control their heating from a tablet or phone; there are great opportunities for installers. Consumers may be more aware, but the technical knowledge and skills required by this more sophisticated technology is where installers can become their trusted expert.

“As this technology becomes even more intuitive, it is essential that heating engineers have the knowledge, technical skills and understanding, so they can provide the best possible service to their customers; from advice on the most appropriate solutions to meet their needs and budget, through to installation and aftercare. Being equipped, prepared and eager to stay ahead will help them to maximise on this trend and grow their business.

“The IDHEE is committed to supporting innovation. We constantly review and update our training and information tools to ensure our members have the necessary knowledge and skills to give more people better access to efficient, sustainable heat for their homes. Our 2017 conference will provide a great forum for debate, learning and hearing the latest developments that heating engineers need to understand to benefit their business.”

Speakers from the main industry influencers including BEIS and Every Home Counts, will join senior representatives from the controls, metering, storage, certification and skills sectors to share their views and highlight how the industry can benefit from; and work with the next new generation of technology.

An open forum led by the speakers will give delegates the opportunity to ask questions and raise issues affecting the industry, to gain further insight into the future of domestic heating in the UK.

The 2017 annual conference and exhibition of the Institute of Domestic Heating & Environmental Engineers will be held at the National Conference Centre (NCC) near the NEC in Birmingham on Tuesday 20^th June.

Delegate costs: