energy performance certificates (EPC)
The EU passed a law called the "Energy Performance of Buildings Directive". This law states that an EPC must be provided whenever a building is constructed, sold, or rented out.
The EPC provides an energy efficiency rating and an environmental impact rating for the property as it stands on the day of the inspection. It will make recommendations on improvements that can be made. At first glance it looks very similar to the stickers found many 'white goods' like fridges and freezers. It uses a simple A–G scale where 'A' rated property will be very energy efficient and properties rated 'F' or 'G' will be much less efficient. In addition there will be a number of recommended improvements which are split into categories of cost so the owner can decide which ones are cost effective.
It is expected that the average householder will be able to decrease their heating and lighting bills by nearly £300 every year by making behavioural changes to how they consume energy. They will also help reduce CO2 emissions and help decrease the effects of global warming. Ewgeco provides information required for the EPC.
Since autumn 2008 all domestic rented properties also require an EPC when a property becomes vacant or upon change of tenancy.
Display Energy Certificates
The Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations introduced the requirement for Display Energy Certificates (DECs) in public buildings from 1st October 2008. A DEC must be prominently displayed in non-domestic public buildings with a gross floor area over 1,000 m2
In the context of the Regulations, a public building is one occupied by public authorities or institutions providing public services to large numbers of persons e.g. central Government, local authority, NHS buildings etc. Buildings such as leisure centres, theatres and galleries providing services from public funds will also need a Display Energy Certificate. Smaller buildings will also be 'caught' by the Regulations on a site where they have a combined floor area exceeding 1,000 m2 and are connected by a conditioned (heated, cooled or mechanically ventilated) space.
The Display Energy Certificate will convey the Operational Rating of the building, indicating its energy efficiency and CO2 emissions on a scale of A to G. The Operational Rating will indicate how well the building is being managed and operated. Display Energy Certificates are based on the building's energy consumption, so if you are responsible for a public building affected by the Regulations you should start to gather the data using Ewgeco, meter readings and from you energy suppliers.