Display Energy Certificates (DEC)

Display Energy Certificates

Descrings in the UK are also required to have a Display Energy Certificate (DEC) in addition to an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This shows the energy performance of buildings as per defined criteria evaluated by an accredited energy assessor.

What does a DEC include?

The Display Energy Certificate (DEC) is based on the actual energy use of a building and reflects on the energy efficiency of a particular construction. It includes ratings for energy efficiency for buildings on a scale of A to G, with A being the most efficient and G being the least efficient. The DEC should be displayed in a prominent place clearly visible to the public. The DEC should be in color and should be no smaller than A3 in size.

There is also an advisory report included with the DEC which gives recommendations on improving the energy efficiency of buildings. This report helps recognize ways of improving their DEC energy efficiency ratings in future. The AR does not need to be displayed, but the occupier must be in possession of a valid one at all times.

Why are DECs required?

DECs help raise awareness in the general public about energy efficiency. Besides that, they also help the public see how efficiently a public building is using energy. Thus it serves an informational purpose to point out how public organizations are complying by the stipulated energy standards. Other than that, having the energy efficiency of public bodies displayed in the form of ratings also sets a good example for private organizations and the general public to learn from. The better the environmental performance of a public building, the better its reputation in the public eye.

Which Buildings are required to display the DEC?

All public buildings are required to display DECs on their premises. The general criteria for buildings to qualify for displaying the DEC are as follows:

  • The building should have a floor area of over 500 square metres
  • It should be occupied at least partially by public authorities
  • It must be visited frequently by the public
  • It must have a roof and walls
  • It should have technologies installed to regulate the indoor environment, such as heating, mechanical ventilation or air conditioning
Validity Periods for DECs and ARs

DECs are valid for 12 months from the date they are issued. They must be renewed when this period is over. Buildings should ensure that only a valid DEC is displayed on their premises. As for the Advisory Report (AR), it needs to be renewed every 7 years, starting from the date they are lodged on the register.

Do Private Organizations need a DEC?

Private organizations do not require a DEC, but if they want to get one, they can. By displaying a DEC with a good rating, organizations can help build their reputation as an environmentally-responsible organization. If they energy rating is not good at first, organizations can help improve their ratings for future DECs with the help of the AR accompanying the DEC.

With the DEC, public organizations can set a good example for the general public and private businesses to follow.

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