Commercial EPCs

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) has introduced new certification requirements for all commercial buildings across Europe.

The new rules have been phased in from April 2008, but from 1st October 2008 most commercial buildings over 50m2 will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) when they are sold, let, modified or constructed.

There are certain limited exemptions some of which are listed below:

• Places of worship
• Stand-alone commercial buildings of less than 50m2 (except for dwellings)
• Temporary buildings with a planned time of use of 2 years or less
• Particular industrial buildings with a low energy demand (e.g. barns)
• In some circumstances buildings to be demolished are exempt from requiringa certificate

The certificate provides an estimate of energy usage and CO2 emissions of a building, based on an asset rating system similar to a white goods energy rating – see example below – and will also include advice on further cost effective improvements, which FH&G will also be pleased to assist you with.

The report will identify three key figures for the building:

• The actual rating of the building
• The average rating for buildings of a similar type – for easy comparison
• A rating for the building if it were built in accordance with 2006 Building Regulations

For full information on the EPBD regulations, please download our brochure.