Blog | EPCs

Energy Performance Certificates Explained

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) indicate the energy efficiency of a building. They are required by law for both commercial buildings and residential properties that are newly built, being sold or being rented.

What Is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC?)

An EPC determines how energy efficient a building is, rating buildings between A (most efficient) and G (least efficient).

EPCs contain information about a building’s energy usage and estimated energy costs. The document also includes recommendations to lower a building’s energy usage by highlighting cost-effective methods to improve the energy efficiency rating.

EPCs are valid for 10 years from the date they were issued.

Are EPCs Necessary?

EPCs are required for commercial properties when being sold or leased, when a project is built or when changes have been made to a building such as those affecting heating and ventilation systems.

EPCs became required by law in England, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2008, and in Scotland in 2009. Those without an EPC who require it can be charged.

Notably, there are exemptions such as places of worship and temporary buildings that will be used for less than 2 years. It is best to check the government's website to see if your building is exempt.

The cost of EPCs vary greatly depending on the size and type of a building. In Scotland, only government approved organisations (such as DARe-me Consulting Engineers) can produce valid EPCs.

How to Improve Your Building's Energy Efficiency Rating

An EPC will suggest ways to improve your building’s energy performance and highlight the cost of these. Implementing these improvements can significantly reduce your energy costs and ultimately your carbon emissions. Furthermore, incorporating energy efficient features within your building will likely increase the building’s value.

Potential ways to improve your EPC rating include:

Heating systems: Installing an energy efficient heating system like air source heat pumps can reduce your carbon footprint
Low-energy lighting: Incorporating a low voltage lighting system such as PoE lighting can result in significant energy savings
Insulation: Upgrading or incorporating building fabric and insulation reduces the need for heating, serving to cut energy costs
Solar panels: Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, generating low carbon, renewable energy.

An EPC also determines:

The cost of making these improvements and potential savings
The estimated cost of power and electricity once improvements are made
Total savings which could be achieved and a potential improved energy performance rating

Summary

Energy Performance Certificates indicate how efficient a building is and suggest ways to improve this. Not only are they required by law, but EPCs can also generate energy savings over time. Incorporating efficient features within your building will help your building meet government guidelines and building regulations.

At DARe-me Consulting Engineers, we are experts at creating innovative building services design while ensuring your building complies with regulations and environmental guidelines. Contact the team today to find out how we can conduct EPCs for your project.

Current Job Vacancies

Our Current Vacancies ... to apply email your CV to jobs@dare-me.co.uk

Position: Senior / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Glasgow

Employment Type: Full time / Permanent

Experience: Minimum 5 years relevant design experience

Start Date: ASAP

Salary: Excellent / Dependant on experience

Qualifications: Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree in Building Services or Mechanical Engineering.

Chartered status: IMECHE/CIBSE is preferred or progression towards chartership.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Proficiency in AutoCAD with a working knowledge of Revit.

2. Technical proficiency, strong communication skills, effective time management, and a collaborative team approach.

3. Demonstrated ability to exercise financial control and project management skills would be advantageous.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct mechanical design and consulting tasks encompassing systems design, production, specifications, and scheduling.

2. Provide comprehensive reports and guidance to clients.

3. Coordinate with internal and external design team members, representing the company in meetings.

4. Serve as the primary contact for clients, ensuring their needs are met efficiently by leading or assisting consultants.

5. Foster effective collaboration with all stakeholders impacted by your work.

6. Demonstrate accountability in project management and actively mentor junior staff through training initiatives.

7. Monitor and adjust personal and team workload schedules regularly. Establish and update task priority lists accordingly.

8. Review the accuracy and completeness of documentation produced by colleagues.

9. Uphold adherence to all Quality System protocols.

10. Fulfill administrative duties including tracking project-related man-hour commitments and providing monthly reports on project fee details.

11. Oversee project management activities, including the coordination of junior staff and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

12. Adhere to security protocols and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive commercial information.

13. Fulfill any additional responsibilities required to support the company's core objectives as directed by the Directors.

14. Contribute to compliance with relevant ISO standards and national regulations in all operational activities.

Our Current Vacancies ... to apply email your CV to jobs@dare-me.co.uk

Position: Associate Electrical Design Engineer

Location: Glasgow

Employment Type: Full time / Permanent

Experience: 10+ years relevant design experience

Start Date: ASAP

Salary: Excellent / Dependant on experience

Qualifications: Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree in Building Services or Electrical Engineering.

Chartered status: IET/CIBSE is preferred or progression towards chartership.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Generate electrical design drawings, conduct calculations using software such as Amtech, Hevacomp, IES, Relux, and Dialux, and prepare reports, specifications, and schedules.

2. Play a role in achieving BREEAM or equivalent regulatory compliance.

3. Contribute to compliance with Building Regulations Part F, Part L, or Section 6 through modeling efforts.

4. Participate in witnessing tests for the proving and commissioning of final installations.

5. Aid in the training and development of junior engineers.

6. Adhere to internal and external project timelines efficiently.

7. Adhere to the company's Quality Assurance management systems.

8. Provide support to Directors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct mechanical design and consulting tasks encompassing systems design, production, specifications, and scheduling.

2. Provide comprehensive reports and guidance to clients.

3. Coordinate with internal and external design team members, representing the company in meetings.

4. Serve as the primary contact for clients, ensuring their needs are met efficiently by leading or assisting consultants.

5. Foster effective collaboration with all stakeholders impacted by your work.

6. Demonstrate accountability in project management and actively mentor junior staff through training initiatives.

7. Monitor and adjust personal and team workload schedules regularly. Establish and update task priority lists accordingly.

8. Review the accuracy and completeness of documentation produced by colleagues.

9. Uphold adherence to all Quality System protocols.

10. Fulfill administrative duties including tracking project-related man-hour commitments and providing monthly reports on project fee details.

11. Oversee project management activities, including the coordination of junior staff and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

12. Adhere to security protocols and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive commercial information.

13. Fulfill any additional responsibilities required to support the company's core objectives as directed by the Directors.

14. Contribute to compliance with relevant ISO standards and national regulations in all operational activities.

DARe-me Consulting Engineers

Core Values

Technical Excellence

Our commitment to quality service extends beyond external interactions with clients, designers, contractors, and industry stakeholders. Internally, we foster a collaborative environment where teamwork is paramount. Our aim is to be the dependable choice for clients and fellow team members alike. Upholding a consistently high level of service is essential in maintaining our reputation as trusted partners.

Excellence in Deliverables

Renowned for delivering superior end-products, we prioritise the continuous development of our workforce. We meticulously review and refine our methodologies, processes, and outputs to ensure unparalleled quality. Our focus on people development drives our relentless pursuit of excellence. We embrace innovation and adaptability to remain at the forefront of our industry, consistently exceeding expectations as the consultant of choice.

Innovation

Innovation lies at the heart of our operations, and we leverage advanced technologies such as the latest computer software and even drones for surveying to enhance our services. By integrating drones into our surveying process, we achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and safety standards. This innovative approach not only sets us apart but also ensures that we deliver exceptional results to our clients, reinforcing our position as industry leaders.

Empowerment and Growth

Central to our values is the empowerment and growth of our staff. We invest in their professional development through robust technical support and training programs, instilling confidence in their abilities. Additionally, we prioritise streamlining processes to promote a healthy work-life balance, enabling our team members to thrive personally and professionally. Our comprehensive benefits package underscores our commitment to their wellbeing, health, and financial security.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility

We are dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility in all aspects of our operations. From minimising our environmental footprint to actively contributing to community and charitable initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact. Our sustainable practices not only align with our core values but also reflect our commitment to creating a better future for generations to come.

Stay in touch with us on social media, we DARe you!

Get in Touch

83 Old Castle Road, Glasgow, G44 5TG

Glasgow: 0141 374 2965

Edinburgh: 0131 235 2965

London: 0208 087 2965

enquiries@dare-me.co.uk

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