In this series, Bord Gáis Energy is sharing details on some of its SME customers and their business successes. This month, we feature Dominic Dunne, Managing Director and founder of Laois-based METAC Training, the largest energy training and assessment centre in Ireland and the UK.

Can you tell us about the inspiration behind METAC and how you set it up?

By the time I set up METAC Training in 2006, I had worked in the heating industry for some years. In 1978, I formed Heat Services Ltd, which did contracted work for most major manufacturers in the UK.

Through my work overseas, I found that there was a major lack of knowledge within our industry, mainly due to the lack of appropriate training available in Ireland.

I set out to establish METAC Training after visiting a number of training facilities both in the UK and beyond, designing and building the facility myself. Our centre now extends to 35,000 square metres, complete with 13 theory classrooms and 11 practical workshops.

How has METAC Training grown since it began?

In Association with

The range of courses available has expanded significantly since 2006, when we offered domestic oil courses only. We now provide specialist training in renewable energy, electrical, gas and oil, solid fuel, electrofusion and welding, along with sustainable systems such as rainwater harvesting.

How does METAC differ from other energy training centres?

All of our courses emphasise practical hands-on training. Our career-focused approach to training means that we are constantly developing new course offerings, updating existing courses, and installing the most up-to-date equipment.

We pride ourselves on employing industry experts sourced from both the national and international market to deliver the best possible course content to our learners. Our drive and uniqueness as a training facility has been recognised by a number of awards, including the ‘Best Service Provider’ award at The Energy Show in 2014 and 2016.

How do you manage your energy costs?

We promote energy efficiency by both example and training, as we provide training on heating controls which can lead to major savings. We use our wind turbine along with PV (Photo Voltaic) and our CHP unit to subsidise our electricity requirement.

We use thermostat valves on all radiators and we are in the process of upgrading our lighting to be more energy efficient. We also harvest rainwater from the roof and have a heat recovery system in our computer room, which controls and distributes heat to the two adjoining rooms.

What energy management tips would you give to someone starting a business?

Look closely at your energy supplier to get the best price for the supply you require, and ensure the building has sufficient insulation and air tightness to meet your needs.

You should also look at a management system for both heating and lighting, using what is required and turning off what is not. Utilise rainwater harvesting for plumbing where possible and utilise as much renewable energy as you can.

To find out more about METAC Training, visit www.metac.ie

Visit www.businessenergy.ie or call 1850 211 907 to find out about the products and services Bord Gáis Energy provides