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Introduction

The construction industry stands at a pivotal crossroads, with Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) rapidly transforming traditional building practices. As the demand for efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective construction solutions continues to grow across Ireland, MMC offers a compelling pathway forward. Factory production, digital design tools, and new materials are changing the daily work of every construction professional. For consulting engineers specifically, this shift demands new skills but offers substantial benefits in project delivery. In Ireland specifically, the housing shortage and climate commitments require construction solutions that deliver more buildings with fewer resources and lower emissions. MMC addresses these twin challenges directly.

The Technological Forerunner

The acceleration of technological innovation within MMC is remarkable. 3D volumetric construction has matured significantly, enabling entire room units to be manufactured with precision in controlled factory environments before transportation to the site. This approach dramatically reduces construction timelines while maintaining exceptional quality standards. Meanwhile, modular building techniques have evolved beyond simple repetitive structures to accommodate complex architectural designs that were previously thought impossible without traditional methods.

Twin wall technology represents one of the most promising hybrid methods gaining traction in Ireland. This technology consists of two precast concrete panels connected by steel lattice girders, with the void between them filled with in-situ concrete on-site. Engineering studies have demonstrated that interface shear strength increases with surface roughness, outer biscuit concrete strength, and connector embedment depth. The use of lattice shear connectors and increasing their depth significantly improves stiffness, flexural failure load, and composite action. Recent finite element modelling has confirmed that single trusses can

replace double trusses without compromising performance under certain conditions. A finding that offers significant material efficiency gains.

Twin wall systems significantly outperform traditional methods in critical areas that matter to consulting engineers: they carry heavier loads while using less material, provide better sound insulation between dwellings (a common complaint in multi-unit housing), and achieve fire ratings that satisfy the most stringent regulations without additional treatments. These systems have proven themselves in both residential and commercial applications across Ireland, offering a versatile solution that bridges prefabrication efficiency with structural performance.

Digital integration through Building Information Modelling (BIM) has become the backbone of successful MMC implementation, creating a seamless information flow from design through manufacturing to assembly. For consulting engineers, this digital thread offers unprecedented opportunities to optimise designs, predict performance, and collaborate across disciplines with greater efficiency.

Sustainability at the Core

MMC’s sustainability credentials extend far beyond the obvious reduction in construction waste. The factory-based production model enables precise resource management and material optimisation that would be impossible to achieve on traditional construction sites. Studies indicate that MMC approaches can reduce material waste by up to 90% compared to traditional construction methods.

The controlled manufacturing environment also facilitates the integration of cutting-edge insulation technologies and airtightness solutions, resulting in buildings that significantly outperform their traditionally built counterparts in energy efficiency. Twin wall systems, for instance, can be engineered with precise thermal breaks and integrated insulation layers, achieving U-values as impressive as 0.12W/m²K, far exceeding regulatory requirements while using less material. This performance advantage aligns perfectly with Ireland’s ambitious climate action goals and provides consulting engineers with powerful tools to deliver on increasingly stringent building regulations.

Challenges and Opportunities for Irish Engineering Consultants

While MMC presents tremendous opportunities, Irish consulting engineers must navigate several technical challenges during this transition. The integration of modular components with traditional building systems requires careful consideration of load paths, connections,

and material interfaces. Modular dimensions are often restricted by transportation regulations, which can limit design flexibility. Furthermore, the seamless integration of building services (plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems) within modular units requires detailed planning to avoid rework on-site.

For twin wall systems specifically, engineers must understand the complex interaction between precast elements and in-situ concrete, including calculating differential shrinkage, managing thermal bridging at connections, and ensuring dimensional precision for factory production. Structural connections between modular units and traditional structures are particularly critical for stability under dynamic loads like wind or seismic activity.

However, these challenges represent opportunities for forward-thinking firms to differentiate themselves in an evolving marketplace. The Shanganagh Castle Estate project in Dublin demonstrates the efficiency gains possible with MMC approaches. This large-scale development, which commenced in September 2022, implemented a phased delivery approach using prefabricated elements, including twin wall technology. Phase 1, comprising 51 houses and a creche, was completed in just 14 months by September 2024. The subsequent phases of apartment construction are progressing at an 18-month timeline per phase, which is remarkably efficient for developments of this scale. This project also earned distinction as Ireland’s largest passive house scheme, demonstrating the compatibility of MMC with the highest sustainability standards.

The economic advantages are equally compelling. Research indicates that MMC techniques can accelerate construction timelines by 20% to 60% compared to traditional methods. In the context of rising construction costs, with tender prices increasing by 8.9% in 2021, 3.5% in 2022, and 1.6% in 2023, this efficiency is invaluable. Studies have identified potential cost savings of up to 14% for two-bedroom apartments through a combination of approaches, including the adoption of European construction methods like twin wall systems.

The firms that successfully integrate MMC knowledge into their practice will find themselves well-positioned to deliver on the Housing for All strategy’s ambitious targets while maintaining the highest standards of quality and sustainability. Furthermore, the precision and predictability inherent in MMC approaches allow engineers to push the boundaries of design innovation while maintaining confidence in structural performance and longevity.

Looking Forward

As Ireland continues to address its housing and infrastructure needs, MMC will play an increasingly central role in delivering solutions that are not only faster and more cost-effective but also more sustainable and adaptable to future needs. The adaptation of Irish building codes to accommodate these innovative construction methods, particularly regarding energy efficiency, fire safety, and structural performance, created a supportive regulatory environment for MMC adoption.

Quality assurance processes for MMC components have also evolved, with regular inspections during manufacturing, rigorous testing of structural elements, and adherence to Eurocodes ensuring that components perform as designed under Irish conditions. Digital tools like BIM are increasingly used to track quality throughout the design-to-installation process, providing engineers with unprecedented visibility into component performance.

For consulting engineers, embracing these methods represents an opportunity to lead rather than follow in the industry’s transformation. The technical expertise required to optimise twin wall systems, flat slab construction, and other emerging hybrid methods will become increasingly valuable as the industry transitions from traditional approaches.

I will be speaking on these topics and more at the National Construction Summit at the National Sports Campus (Dublin) on the 2nd of April, focusing specifically on how Modern Methods of Construction are reshaping the industry’s future. As an R&D tax consultant working extensively with construction firms and MMC specialists, I look forward to sharing deeper insights into how engineering innovation is driving this revolution.

Article by Benson John MSc CEng MIMeche,

Assistant Manager – R&D Tax Incentives

 

 

Ireland is witnessing a significant digital transformation within its construction, architecture, and engineering (AEC) industries. As the country cements its position on the global stage, these sectors are increasingly leveraging digital technologies to drive growth, enhance efficiency, and improve sustainability. This shift is backed by substantial investments, economic incentives, and a forward-looking approach to technological innovations.

Industry Growth and Investment

The Irish government’s commitment to modernizing the AEC sectors is profoundly evident through initiatives such as Project Ireland 2040. This long-term strategy centres on spatial planning and public capital investment, with a significant portion allocated to the digitization and modernization of infrastructure. Major stakeholders in both the private and public sectors are increasingly investing in Building Information Modeling (BIM), prefabrication, ‘digital twin’ models, and cloud-based project management platforms, signalling a robust growth trajectory for these industries.

Economic Impact

Digitization is poised to deliver considerable economic benefits to Ireland’s AEC industries. Enhanced project efficiencies and productivity gains are reducing project timelines and costs, while increasing accuracy in project execution. These benefits translate into more competitive bidding for international contracts and an uptick in foreign direct investment. Furthermore, the construction industry, which accounts for a substantial portion of Ireland’s GDP, stands to gain from improved sustainability practices, which align with both European Union and national green economy targets.

Technological Innovation

Ireland’s AEC sectors are at the forefront of integrating cutting-edge technologies. BIM is becoming the industry standard for project visualization and collaboration, enabling all stakeholders to work from a single, accurate source of information. The adoption of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) is enhancing design processes by providing immersive project experiences. Additionally, the Internet of Things (IoT) is making construction sites smarter, with real-time data collection and monitoring leading to better decision-making and enhanced safety.

Emerging technologies such as drones for site surveys and inspections and the development of digital twin models, as well as 3D printing for creating complex building components, are also gaining traction. These innovations promise to further reduce labour costs, minimize material waste, and streamline project workflows.

Future Outlook and Opportunities

The future of Ireland’s AEC sectors looks promising, with a multitude of opportunities emerging from the ongoing digital revolution. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) for predictive analytics and automation can revolutionize risk management and resource allocation. Moreover, advancements in sustainable building materials and energy-efficient designs are expected to rise in response to heightened environmental awareness and regulatory mandates.

Education and training will play a crucial role in equipping the workforce with the necessary digital skills. Collaborations between industry and academia are essential to foster innovation and maintain a pipeline of talent capable of driving the next wave of technological advancements.

Overall, the digitisation of Ireland’s construction, architecture, and engineering sectors is not just a trend but a transformative wave that promises profound economic impacts and numerous opportunities for growth. As these industries continue to embrace and integrate new technologies, Ireland is well-positioned to become a leader in the global digital construction landscape, delivering sustainable and efficient solutions for future infrastructure needs.

Authored by: Robert McNair, PhD – Senior Technical Consultant, Leyton Ireland

This year will see the launch of Griffiths & Armour’s latest publication, ‘Constructing Change –

Evolving the Status Quo or Time to Reset’. The document follows extensive engagement with our clients and other interested parties over the past 18-months and examines key challenges facing the construction, insurance and legal sectors, whilst also recognising the opportunity to deliver real change.

Read more about Griffiths & Armour’s work with The Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland (ACEI) Here.

ConsultA is an information ezine for ACEI members established in March 2020.  On a monthly basis, the ezine covers the key issues facing the consulting engineering profession at national, EU and global levels.  


ConsultA contains useful advice and critical information for member firms to support their businesses.  In addition, ConsultA tells the story of the ACEI members and the brilliant work they undertake daily.  Members are welcome to contribute to the ezine in many ways.  Those wishing to do so should click here.


Included in the newsletter are weblinks to the European (EFCA) and International consulting engineering association (FIDIC).

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The ACEI is delighted to welcome Kelly O’Connor to the team.  Kelly joins us from the communications department of Dublin City Council and will take up the role of Executive in the Association.  She brings a wealth of experience in marketing, communications, PR, and stakeholder management. 

 

Kelly will focus on increasing the number of companies joining the ACEI community, growing our online presence, building our reputation with external stakeholders, and supporting the work of ACEI communities.  She will play a pivotal role in telling the ACEI’s story and that of the excellent work of its members across Ireland and globally.  This will help highlight the role the consulting engineering sector plays and will play in resolving Ireland’s housing, infrastructure, and climate crises. 

 

I hope you will join me welcoming Kelly to the ACEI; I know she will have a rewarding, challenging and prosperous career working with the ACEI and its members.

 

Shane

Shane Dempsey, ACEI Secretary General

The EFCA newsletter has just been published, it contains information on the following:

 

The full newsletter is available here.

There has been an update to the software on the eTenders platform, which took place on 5th February 2024. The update to the platform software provides enhancements in the following areas:

  •               Enhancement to Qualification Systems for the Utilities Sector
  •               Inclusion of messaging functionality for DPS tenders
  •               Inclusion manual creation of Qualification Systems
  •               Adjustment to the operation of Part III B of the ESPD Request
  •               Offline evaluation – Inclusion of a printer friendly report that associates the submitted files with the decryption key that the        platform provides
  •               Inclusion of eForms notices in search results
  •               Ability to create standalone award notices directly to the TED Portal via eTenders

 

Please review these release notes for further information.  Any queries should be directed to: OGP’s Client Service Team at support@ogp.gov.ie or Tel: +35317738000

Noel Kane ACEI President 2002 – RIP

Noel graduated from UCD in 1965 with a Bachelor of Civil Engineering.  He spent over 40 years with Garland culminating in his role as Chairperson from 2002 to 2019. He became ACEI President in 2002 and worked tirelessly on behalf of the Association during his tenure.  See Garland’s memorial in honor of Noel here.ACEI sends sincere condolences and sympathy to Noels’ family, friends and colleagues; he will be greatly missed.

Funeral arrangements can be found on rip.ie. 

This year’s EFCA Future Leaders’ competition is special as some changes have been made to the Competition. The spotlight is on the Future Leader! With the introduction of new submission processes, and five new excellence categories, we want to highlight the role of the Future Leaders within a project. For the first time ever, entries can be submitted in a free form, including, but not limited to pdf, video, ppt, and prezi. Creativity is encouraged and rewarded with the introduction of a new excellence category specifically recognising the quality of the submission presentation.

The other new excellence categories are:

 

  • Engineering,
  • Digital & New Technologies,
  • Impact on Climate & Biodiversity,
  • Contribution to Society.


Further information is available here.

Please note the deadline for application is the 31st of March 2024.

Project: Vartry Water Supply Scheme

Description: The project comprises a 4km piped replacement of the Callowhill Tunnel, an 80 megalitre/day treatment plant and an 80 megalitre storage reservoir supplying 200,000 consumers. It had numerous stakeholders and interest groups coupled with critical interfaces including SAC’s and Grade A dams. Planning permission was a significant risk which led to its division into three independent projects. The consultant prepared a detailed Stakeholder Engagement Plan and assigned a senior resource to manage same. A highly complex and critical project which would not have enjoyed the ultimate success that it did without expert engineering project management.

Read more at their website. If you’d like to be featured in a future edition of ConsultA or as a spotlight member, get in touch with Kelly at kelly.oconnor@acei.ie.