CIBSE is currently seeking input to its submission to the consultation on the Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) regime, including Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
The proposed reforms aim to create a robust EPB regime that delivers accurate energy performance data to empower homeowners, tenants and industry stakeholders.
The consultation, published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) on 4 December, seeks to refine and enhance the framework for assessing and improving the energy performance of buildings across the UK.
It addresses: EPC metrics; regulatory requirements; quality management; data accessibility; air conditioning inspections; and operational ratings.
The consultation proposes moving away from calculating EPCs using modelled ‘per square metre’ energy costs. It says EPCs’ existing focus solely on energy costs is ‘insufficient’ and should be widened out to include factors such as thermal performance of the building’s fabric, type of heating system, and a building’s potential to integrate smart technologies, such as solar panels.
The government is proposing that domestic EPCs use four main metrics – fabric performance, heating system, smart readiness, and energy costs – with other metrics providing secondary information. It says carbon would be maintained as the single headline metric for non-domestic EPCs, but new primary or secondary metrics may be added over time where appropriate.
This wider range of metrics will enable EPCs to take into account factors such as how well insulated a property is and whether it can lessen strain on the Grid by incorporating smart technologies, says the DESNZ paper.
The changes are in line with a package of EPC reforms recommended by the Climate Change Committee last year.
The consultation closes on the 26 February. To contribute to the CIBSE response please send your comments to technical@cibse.org by 16 February.
Find details of all current open consultations: www.cibse.org/consultations