What is a Display Energy Certificate (DEC)
Display Energy Certificates (DECs) show the operational rating energy performance of a building. They use a rating scale from A to G, with an A rating being the best (most energy efficient) and a G rating being the worst (least energy efficient).
Similar in design to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which only show the potential energy efficiency of a building, Display Energy Certificates (DECs) show the actual energy performance of a building based off the previous 12 months of utility data.
A Recommendation Report is provided with the DEC which highlights ways by which the energy performance of your building can be improved in the short, medium and long terms.
When is a Display Energy Certificate (DEC) Required
DECs are required on all public buildings with a total useful floor area greater than 250m2. To be deemed as a public building, it should meet all the following criteria:
- It should be occupied, at least in part, by a Public Authority. For example, Council offices, Leisure Centres, NHS Trusts and State Schools. We have also been told that if School Academies receive funding from Local Authorities or occupy their buildings then they also require a DEC.
- It must have a floor area greater than 250m2. There are additional requirements for buildings with a floor area greater than 1,000m2.
- It must also be frequently visited by the Public.
Newly built Public Buildings should have an Asset Rating DEC (based on the Buildings Energy Performance Certificate) for the first year, after which a standard DEC can be produced based on the actual 12 months of utility data.
How Long are Display Energy Certificates (DECs) Valid For
For Public Buildings with a total useful floor area greater than 250m2 but less than 1,000m2 the DEC is valid for 10 years, as is the accompanying Recommendation Report.
For Public Buildingswith a total useful floor area greater than 1,000m2 the DEC is Valid for 1 year, with the accompanying Recommendation Report valid for 7 years.
A Display Energy Certificate should be clearly displayed, no smaller in size than A3 paper, in a prominent location accessible by members of the public, such as the main reception area to a building.
Fines can be issued for either failing to hold a valid DEC or Recommendation Report, or even if a valid DEC has been carried out, for failing to display the DEC as required.
How we can Help
At Elmstead Energy Assessments and Building Services we are fully qualified and experienced Energy Assessors capable of carrying out DEC Assessments.
For existing buildings, we can conduct the required site visit at a time most convenient to you and we can analyse your previous 12 months utility bills. Inputting this information into our Government Approved ORCalc software, we can then issue you with a compliant Display Energy Certificate and Recommendation Report.
For new builds we can also carry out the Energy Performance Certificate and Asset Rating DEC required.
