Industry prepares for bigger demand

THE National Insulation Association has revealed plans to establish an external stakeholder forum for solid wall insulation.
The association said SWI has a key role to play in the success of the Green Deal and Energy Company Obligation (ECO) and that “a significant increase in volumes” will be required.
Chief executive Neil Marshall said: “The NIA and its members are committed to developing the SWI market in a controlled and sustainable way, ensuring that quality and standards are maintained. However, we cannot do this alone. Partnerships and collaborative working with other organisations across the sector will be needed to facilitate the successful mass market roll-out of SWI.
“To this end, we are establishing a new forum and inviting representatives from key organisations including energy suppliers, social housing providers, local councils, Green Deal Providers, consume groups and training providers to join the forum and work with us in developing the expansion plans.”
The association represents the manufacturers, system designers and installers of cavity wall, external wall and internal wall insulation, loft insulation and draught proofing.
There are around seven million uninsulated solid wall properties in the UK and under the Green Deal and ECO there needs to be a major increase in SWI insulation volumes to support the achievement of the UK Government’s climate change targets.
In August the NIA established the Solid Wall Group to take forward the industry’s strategy and plans.
At the time, Neil Marshall said: “The group comprises specialist external and internal wall insulation manufacturers, system designers and contractors and will focus specifically on the development and implementation of the NIA’s SWI market and supply chain development plans.
“The NIA is uniquely placed to shape the SWI market as it covers both external and internal wall insulation and the NIA Solid Wall Group has the specialist knowledge, experience and technical expertise to engage effectively with Government, external bodies and consumers in developing the market.”