Energy Performance of Buildings

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) is a European-wide initiative which is designed to raise awareness of energy use in buildings and to bring about substantial increases in investments in energy efficiency measures.

A significant proportion of our carbon dioxide output comes from houses. The energy we use to heat, light and power our homes produces 27 per cent of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions. Energy Performance Certificates are designed for the ultimate purpose of reducing energy consumption and so harmful  carbon dioxide (C0²) output.
 
Here in England and Wales the EPBD has already begun to be implemented in stages between now and January 2009. Article 7 of the Directive requires an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to be produced whenever a building is constructed, sold or rented out.   


Energy Performance Certificates & HIPs

Currently every home that is marketed requires a Home Information Pack (HIP), including an Energy Performance Certificate.  

EPCs and the broad advantages. By showing where significant reductions in home energy use can be made the Energy Performance Certificate may seen as a useful tool in helping to alleviate our reliance on fossil fuels and reducing harmful carbon emissions (a major contributory factor in climate change).  

The EPC of course provides parallel benefits for individuals. An independent and qualified expert  should produce an objective and impartial representative picture of a building's fuel-energy  economy. V suggestions for improvement are made, ensuring that every homeowner can have the knowledge to carry out the most effective improvements. The end result should be warmer, more comfortable homes and with lower fuel bills.     

The front of the Energy Performance Certificate shows two coloured graphs (see below for an example). These graphs indicate, respectively, the current and potential levels of energy consumption of the building, and the current and potential levels of carbon dioxide emissions.  Reductions gained in energy consumption for space heating, hot water and lighting provision are very closely linked with reductions in harmful emissions.

A building with low energy use and so a low carbon dioxide output would result in a high Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact Ratings (i.e. closer to 'A' than to a 'G' rating).     

Whatever the rating for a building, there are normally ways in which its thermal performance can be improved upon. Recommended measures made are tailored to suit and are structured in a sequence that takes into account immediate costs and longer term gains.