Energy certificates for commercial buildings (EPCs) are a legal requirement if you’re building, selling or renting any type of non-domestic building. They’re an important tool that help you reduce energy bills, minimise carbon emissions and improve the overall efficiency of your business premises.
A commercial EPC energiattest for driftsbygg is a certificate that shows how much energy a particular building uses and the amount of carbon dioxide it produces. It also outlines the cost of heating and lighting the property, plus recommends ways to make it more efficient. The certificate is based on a standard energy rating system from A-G, with A being the most efficient.
The EPC is compiled by a qualified Non-Domestic Energy Assessor who will visit your building and conduct a comprehensive survey. They’ll examine things like the level of insulation, type of heating system, amount of light installed and ventilation. They’ll then use the information gathered to produce your commercial EPC, which is valid for 10 years.
An EPC can help you attract and retain tenants, reduce operating costs, and increase your property value. It’s important to renew your commercial EPC every ten years or sooner if significant changes are made to the property, as this ensures it remains up-to-date and compliant.
There are two different types of EPCs – Non-Domestic EPCs and Display Energy Certificates (DECs). A Non-Domestic EPC is required when a non-domestic building is built, sold or rented. A DEC is required for buildings that are regularly visited by the public, including schools and hospitals.
Both types of EPCs are regulated by the National Energy Act. Under the law, commercial properties must have a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’. However, if you have a building with an EPC rating of F or G, you will need to take steps to improve its energy efficiency before you can grant a new tenancy.
Improving your EPC rating can reduce energy bills, cut carbon emissions, and boost the value of your property. The good news is that there are lots of simple and cost-effective measures you can take to improve your property’s EPC, such as switching to LED lighting or installing draught excluders. Your EPC report will provide a list of recommendations and explain the potential return on investment for each measure.
If you want to go a step further, your commercial building can apply for ENERGY STAR certification, which is an international symbol of high performance and demonstrates to prospective customers that you’re taking steps to improve your energy efficiency. Thousands of buildings and plants have earned ENERGY STAR certification since its inception in 1999, saving up to 35 percent on energy costs and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by the same amount. In addition, ENERGY STAR certified buildings can demand higher rental rates and are more attractive to buyers.