Energy Performance Certificate Gets Green Light

Energy Performance Certificate Gets Green Light

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The G8 summit is well under way, and for the first time all the countries have agreed that global temperatures should not rise more than a further two degrees. This means that emissions of greenhouse gasses need to be slashed by fifty to eighty per cent by 2050, a target that some speculate may be impossible. It seems that although governments have recognised the need for action, there is no definitive plan of action to follow. We take a look at how the UK government are trying to meet targets through Energy Performance Certificates.

Energy performance Certificates, also known as EPCs are now mandatory when selling or leasing out a building, whether domestic or commercial. The aim of the certificate is to show new tenants or property owners how efficient the property is through energy efficiency assessment results and give advice on how the energy efficiency can be improved. The assessment is carried out by a qualified energy auditor who calculates the amount of energy consumed per annum based on bills that have been paid.

The assessor will also check for double glazing, loft insulation and energy efficient heating systems before determining the energy efficiency grade that will be put on the certificate. The most efficient grade that can be achieved is an A, but most homes in the UK are a grade D. Part of the assessment is based on the amount of emissions that are released from energy consumption in the building. If the energy comes from renewable sources, the grade will be significantly higher.

The EPC was introduced as a strategy to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide to pre 1995 levels, but presently, the certificate only advises on how energy efficiency can be achieved. Many people who are concerned about rising temperatures as a result of increasing emissions believe the recommendations need to be implemented, not just highlighted.

Unfortunately, the obstacles facing all the governments involved in reducing emissions are the same; lack of money and lack of appropriate technology. Although there are several ways to produce energy from renewable or sustainable sources, there is no one solution to the problem. Energy professionals continue to design ways to harness energy from wind, solar, geothermal and tidal power, but as yet systems that work on a commercial level are hard to implement.

Until a solution is found, energy performance certificates will continue to highlight the need to address the problem, and are a good starting point for individuals who want to do their bit to help the world meet the targets set at the G8 summit this week.


About the Author:
Dom Donaldson is an energy expert.
Find out more about an Energy Performance Certificate for domestic and commercial premises at National Energy Rating.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


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