Energy Assessment - What is an EPC?
The EPC looks broadly similar to the energy labels now provided with vehicles and many household appliances. Its purpose is to indicate how energy efficient a building is. The certificate will provide an energy rating of the building from A to G, where A is very efficient and G is the least efficient. The better the rating, the more energy-efficient the building is, and the lower the fuel bills are likely to be. The energy performance of the building is shown as a Carbon Dioxide (CO2) based index. Each energy rating is based on the characteristics of the building itself and its services (such as heating and lighting). Hence this type of rating is known as an asset rating. The asset ratings will reflect considerations including the age and condition of the building. It is accompanied by a recommendation report, which provides recommendations on using the building more effectively, cost effective improvements to the building and other more expensive improvements which could enhance the building's energy performance.
Why energy performance certificates are required
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is intended to inform potential buyers or tenants about the energy performance of a building, so they can consider energy efficiency as part of their investment or business decision to buy or occupy that building. An EPC will provide an energy rating for a building which is based on the performance potential of the building itself (the fabric) and its services (such as heating, ventilation and lighting). The energy rating given on the certificate reflects the intrinsic energy performance standard of the building relative to a benchmark which can then be used to make comparisons with comparable properties. It is accompanied by a recommendation report, which provides recommendations on how the energy performance of the building could be enhanced, together with an indication of the payback period.
The Legal Defination
From 6th April 2008 all newly constructed dwellings will require an Energy Performance Certificate on completion. Article 10 of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive requires the energy performance of buildings to be measured using an approved methodology. In the UK this methodology is SAP in the case of new domestic buildings. The SAP calculations must be carried out by qualified and/or accredited experts, whose independence is to be guaranteed on the basis of objective criteria. These criteria are met by membership of Architectural-EPC.
Further Information
For further information please contact NuTech Renewables Ltd
