DEC

A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) is a certificate that provides information about the energy performance of a building. It is specifically designed to show the actual energy usage of a building, measured in terms of energy consumption, and to compare it with a benchmark for buildings of similar type and usage.

DECs provide an energy rating of the building from A to G, where A is very efficient and G is the least efficient and are based on the actual amount of metered energy used by the building over the last 12 months within the validity period of the DEC.

The DEC should be displayed in a prominent place that is clearly visible to members of the public. To enable members of the public to view the document easily, it should be no smaller than A3 in size.

A DEC must be accompanied by an advisory report and the owner of the building must have a valid one available. The advisory report highlights recommendations to improve the energy performance of the building (i.e. its fabric and associated services such as heating, ventilation and lighting)

Benefits of a Display Energy Certificate to a Client:

Energy Efficiency Awareness: DECs help building owners and occupants become more aware of their energy usage, promoting a culture of energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Compliance: For certain types of buildings, DECs are a legal requirement. Ensuring compliance helps avoid fines and legal issues.

Cost Savings: By identifying areas where energy consumption can be reduced, DECs can lead to significant cost savings on energy bills through the implementation of energy efficiency measures.

Environmental Impact: Improving energy efficiency reduces the building’s carbon footprint, contributing to broader environmental sustainability goals and reducing the impact on climate change.

Marketability: Buildings with high energy efficiency ratings can be more attractive to tenants, buyers, and investors who are increasingly considering environmental performance in their decisions.

Benchmarking: DECs provide a way to benchmark energy performance against similar buildings, allowing building managers to see how their building compares and to set targets for improvement.

Strategic Planning: The advisory report that accompanies the DEC provides actionable recommendations for improving energy performance, aiding in the development of long-term energy management strategies.

Occupant Satisfaction: Energy-efficient buildings often provide a more comfortable environment for occupants, with better temperature control and air quality.

Corporate Responsibility: Displaying a DEC demonstrates a commitment to corporate social responsibility