Display Energy Certificates
DECs
What Is It?
A Display Energy Certificate is a rating scheme that is used to show the energy efficiency of public buildings. It contains a rating of how energy efficient a building is, and an Advisory Report to detail ways the rating can be improved. A DEC is mandatory for buildings that provide public access and is required for the building to operate without getting any fines.
Who Needs It?
A DEC is compulsory for a building if:
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The total floor space of the building is 250m2 or more;
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It is operated by a Public Authority;
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It is used by a large number of the public.
Buildings are rated with an "A" to "G" system, clearly showing how efficient they are.
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A being highly efficient and with low energy wastage.
G is in need of improvement, due to lack of efficiency and high energy running costs.
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When a DEC is provided, along with a rating it also shows a typical rating for a similar type of building in the same area, to benchmark and compare the rating against.
Why Is It Needed?
DECs are used to show how energy efficient a building is, and therefore they offer insight into how much energy a building is using, but also how much it is wasting. They detail what can be done to increase the efficiency and also how to help reduce waste. It also gives others an idea on much a building is affecting the environment.
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When Is It Needed?
When first issued, a DEC is valid for up to 10 years, with its accompanying Advisory Report valid for 7 years. However, if a building is over 1000m2, then a DEC is only valid for 1 year and needs to be renewed every 12 months due to the building using larger amounts of energy.
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How We Can Help
Here at Sprite Energy Assessors, we are certified DEC providers and can arrange for a DEC to be issued or renewed for any of your buildings. We can send one of our qualified assessors to perform a site visit and assess your buildings and all of its assets to allow for the report and rating to be given.
NOT HAVING A VALID DEC CAN RESULT IN A FINE OF £500.
