As the number of unemployed architects and engineers steadily increases, this might be the time for some to update skills with a nod to green construction. Tomas O'Leary is a director of the Wicklow-based Passive House Academy and also one of the lecturers in a series of internationally accredited courses kicking off on 8 March.

O'Leary designed and constructed one of the country's first passive houses in 2003 and his home still attracts architects from around the globe, curious to see green living in action.

"There are still misconceptions about passive houses, with some believing that the building is too airtight. But the house is mechanically ventilated leaving air of a much higher quality. Others feel there are restrictions in the design of the house, but you can literally build any shape or size while keeping to the principles of solar orientation and renewable energy technology."

We are already heading towards standardisation in Ireland, he adds, given the fact that construction has to be carbon neutral by 2013. Are the courses strictly aimed at the professions? "We start with a one-day, non-technical course for the lay person who is curious about passive house design. A two-day course is slightly more technical, while the 10-day course is specifically for architects, designers and engineers who may also want to study for one of the four exams taking place throughout Europe this year."

Courses take place at the Wicklow County Campus, near Rathnew. Prices start from €195 for the one-day course. A visit to O'Leary's own passive home forms a brief part of the lectures. Recent international visitors have included architects from New York and Poland, and also a developer from Beijing.

"One advantage for professionals coming from abroad is that in Ireland, we are great communicators. And in the five years I have been living in a passive house, it never ceases to amaze me just how interested people are in this type of design."

www.passivehouseacademy.ie