Energy Performance for Commercial & Domestic Properties
Energy Performance of the Buildings European Directive was approved in 2003 to promote energy conservation measures within the building environment.
The implementation of the directive has been updated in Part L of the Building Regulations and published in May 2006 as a minimum requirement for new and the refurbishment of existing buildings.
Display Energy Certificates (DECs) show the actual energy usage of a building, the Operational Rating, and help the public see the energy efficiency of a building. This is based on the energy consumption of the building as recorded by gas, electricity and other meters. The DEC should be clearly displayed at all times and clearly visible to the public. A DEC is always accompanied by an Advisory Report that lists cost effective measures to improve the energy rating of the building. The requirement for this came into force on 1 October 2006.
Many commercial buildings have a number of air conditioning systems. These systems should be carefully maintained and managed in order that they do not consume too much energy so regular inspections for air conditioning systems is a necessity. On the 4 January 2009 all air conditioning systems over 250kW must have had their first inspection, and by 4 January 2011 all air conditioning systems over 12kW must have their first inspection.
The main driver for air conditioning systems inspections is the size (effective rated output) of the system not the type of building and so the measures apply to homes, commercial and public buildings alike.
The inspection must be carried out by an accredited energy assessor (ACSEA) and this will include an assessment of efficiency, a review of their sizing and advice on improvements or replacements as well as alternative solutions and combined services such as legionella Risk Assessments.
For further information, call our commercial team on 0161 872 7111.
