1 June is a momentous day in the calendar. It sees the introduction of the first phase of legislation that will change the way buildings operate for ever. You can be forgiven for having no idea what I am talking about, for these new laws have crept in rather unannounced. I’m referring to the Energy Performance in Buildings Directive and contractors would be wise to make themselves familiar with these new regulations if they haven’t already.

The Directive will see the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates in all buildings, starting with the sale of homes come 1 June (pages 16-18). Next year, the certificates will have to be displayed in many public buildings and will be required in the sale or rental of commercial properties. A building’s energy use will be rated on a scale of A to G, much like fridges are today.

The European climate change programme predicts that this Directive could deliver CO2 emission reductions of 45 million tonnes over the next three years. It is hoped that the certificates will incentivise improvement as there will be an impact on sale and rental values and the display of energy certificates will result in public pressure.

Nobody can argue with the laudable aims of the European Union. However, many have grumbled that the UK’s slow adoption of the Directive has meant that implementation is now being hurried and organisation is poor.

Regardless of the drawbacks, the Directive offers wily contractors a new business opportunity. Building owners, tenants and developers will be looking to improve their building’s energy ratings. Who better to advise them than the team who installed the building services in the first place?

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor

Postscript

Andrew Brister, Editor