The page provides information on Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) for Public Buildings. The information is provided by Scottish Building Standards
1. What is an EPC?
An EPC is a document which states the energy efficiency of a building based on the standardised way that the building is used. Carbon dioxide (CO2) ratings are shown in bandings from A to G, with A being the least polluting. The number in brackets (see above) refers to CO2 emissions in terms of kg/m2 of floor area per year.
The main focus of the certificate is the amount of CO2 which is estimated to be released from the building. The performance of the building is benchmarked against current building standards and recommended cost effective improvements. It also allows prospective owners and tenants to compare the performance with similar types of buildings.
The certificate must be fixed to the building and will be valid for a period of 10 years.
2. Why have they been introduced?
The earths natural resources such as oil products, natural gas and solid fuels are limited and steps must be taken to conserve these commodities. Scientific studies have indicated that these resources also generate emissions such as CO2, which are considered to have a direct contribution to global warming. Making a building more energy efficient through improvements in heating systems, insulation and air conditioning units will lead to a reduction in energy consumption and in CO2 emissions.
Scotland, as part of the United Kingdom along with all other EU member states has an obligation under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) to promote improvement in the energy performance of new and existing buildings.
3. What information will be shown?
The Energy Performance Certificate:
displays an indication of current CO2 emissions;
provides an indication of potential emissions on an annual basis and also the current energy consumption of the building; and
lists cost effective improvements.
4. Do all public buildings need to display an EPC?
No. This applies only to buildings which meet all of the following criteria:
the conditioned (heated/cooled) area of the building is over 1000m2;
the building is occupied by public authorities or provides public services to a large number of persons;
the building is frequently visited, at least weekly, by members of the general public;
the public have a right of access to the building, or parts of the buildings providing services directly to the public; and
public funding, including part funding, is used to operate, for general upkeep, or to fund staff costs.
Examples include colleges, community centres, libraries, hospitals, benefit offices and crematoria.
5. I have confirmed that my building is a public building and I need an EPC. What do I do next?
You must ensure that the EPC is:
produced using EPBD compliant methodologies/ software; and
affixed to the building in a prominent place; and
in place by 4 January 2009.
6. Who can provide me with an EPC?
The Government has entered into protocol with a number of organisations and professional bodies. Details of qualified and accredited members will be made available by the approved organisation.
Further details are available on the website at:
www.sbsa.gov.uk/european_issues/epcprotocols.htm
7. Who has responsibility for affixing/ displaying an EPC?
Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the building owner, but building occupiers have a duty to ensure the EPC remains visible.
8. Where should an EPC be placed?
In a prominent area of the building so that it can be seen by members of the public e.g. the main entrance lobby or reception area.
9. What happens if I do not display an EPC in my public building?
Local Authorities are directed by Scottish Ministers to ensure that EPCs are prepared and displayed in all public buildings. They have the authority to take enforcement action to ensure compliance under Section 25 of the Building (Scotland) Act 2003.
Enforcement will start from 4 January 2009.
10. When should an EPC be updated?
An individual EPC will only be valid for a period of ten years. If major works were to be undertaken during this period, building owners may choose to update the certificate. However, this is not mandatory.
11. Information and contacts
Further advice and information is available from our website
www.sbsa.gov.uk/european_issues/euroguidance.htm
or you can book an EPC through Thermal Image UK by calling 01357 520557