All about the Energy Performance Certificate

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal document that provides an energy efficiency rating for a building, from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). It also includes recommendations for improving energy performance. Required when properties are built, sold, or rented, EPCs are vital tools in the UK’s journey towards net zero.

Each certificate is valid for 10 years and must be provided to prospective tenants or buyers before any transaction is finalised. EPCs are governed by UK regulations and are mandatory for both residential and commercial properties.

The rating is determined using a government-approved Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP) for dwellings or a similar methodology for non-domestic buildings. The assessment considers insulation, heating systems, lighting, and renewable energy technologies.

How Do You Get an Energy Performance Certificate?

To obtain an Energy Performance Certificate, a qualified Domestic Energy Assessor (DEA) or Non-Domestic Energy Assessor (NDEA) must conduct an in-person survey of the property. Here’s the typical process:

1. Book an Assessor: Use a government-accredited register to find a certified energy assessor.
2. On-site Assessment: The assessor visits the property and collects data on construction materials, insulation levels, boiler type, lighting systems, and more.
3. Calculation and Certification: Using collected data, the assessor generates an energy rating and uploads it to the national EPC register.
4. Receive Your Certificate: The certificate is made available online, complete with suggestions for improving efficiency.

Costs vary depending on property size and type, with domestic EPCs typically ranging from £50 to £120.

Why is an EPC Important?

An EPC is more than a regulatory obligation. It plays a crucial role in energy management, sustainability, and property value. Here’s why it matters:

• Regulatory Compliance: Landlords must achieve a minimum EPC rating of E to legally rent properties in England and Wales.
• Cost Savings: The EPC includes tailored recommendations to reduce energy usage, leading to lower energy bills.
• Environmental Responsibility: EPCs help identify areas where carbon emissions can be reduced, aligning with net-zero targets.
• Investment and Resale Value: Properties with higher EPC ratings tend to attract more interest and better offers.
• Funding and Grants: Some government incentives and funding options require a valid EPC with a minimum rating.

For businesses, particularly those with large property portfolios, managing EPC ratings is a strategic priority that impacts ESG performance and compliance.

How Optimal Monitoring Assists with EPC Strategy

While EPCs provide the framework, businesses need actionable data to maintain compliance and drive improvements. This is where Optimal Monitoring adds real value:

• Automated Energy Monitoring: Using our EMMA AI platform, we help clients track real-time energy consumption across sites.
• EPC Optimisation: Our analytics highlight opportunities to implement EPC recommendations cost-effectively.
• Pre-assessment Support: We guide clients through EPC readiness, ensuring your buildings are positioned to achieve the best possible rating.
• Portfolio Oversight: For large estates, our software enables prioritisation of upgrades by EPC score and business impact.
• Carbon Footprint Integration: EPC improvement plans are linked to net zero goals, delivering sustainability metrics that support ESG reporting.

By integrating EPC insights with intelligent energy management, we ensure our clients not only meet legal obligations but also gain a competitive edge in energy efficiency.