If you’ve come across the term “Display Energy Certificates” (or DECs) and found yourself scratching your head, don’t worry. DECs can seem complex if you’re new to building management, or spinning multiple plates, but we’re here to clear up any confusion and dispel some common myths surrounding them.

What are display energy certificates (DECs)?

First things first, let’s break down what DECs actually are. Display Energy Certificates are documents that show the energy efficiency of a building. They focus on the actual energy consumption of a building, providing a rating on a scale of A to G; where A is very efficient, and G is the least efficient. This rating helps provide an understanding of how energy-efficient a building truly is. 

Unlike Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which are based on a theoretical model of energy efficiency, DECs focus on real-world energy consumption, offering a more accurate picture of a building’s energy usage and carbon emissions. 

Myth 1: All public buildings require a DEC

A common misconception is that DECs are required for all buildings visited by the public. In reality, if your building has a total useful floor area of more than 250 square meters, you are required by law to display a DEC. If your building is smaller, however, or not regularly accessed by the public, you typically don’t need to worry about the regulation.

Myth 2: DECs are just a one-time requirement

You might be mistaken for thinking that once you’ve obtained a DEC, you’re set for life. Not quite. Buildings with a floor area of 1,000 square meters or less must renew their Certificate every 10 years. Meanwhile, larger buildings must renew their Certificate annually. This ensures that the Certificate reflects the current energy consumption and operational rating, keeping the public informed.

Myth 3: A Certificate is all you need

So you’ve got your DEC, you can check it off your list and move on, right? Almost. It is important to remember to display your Certificate in a prominent position, so it is available to be viewed by the public.

The accompanying Recommendation Report is also just as important. This report offers recommendations on how to improve the building’s energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. It’s important to note that while a DEC might need renewing every year, the Recommendation Report is valid for seven years; and if your building is less than 1,000 square meters, your Recommendation Report will remain valid for 10 years.

Myth 4: DECs don’t improve energy efficiency

Displaying a DEC is more than just a legal requirement, it can be a catalyst for change. When a building publicly displays its energy performance, it raises awareness and often prompts action. 

Building managers are more likely to take steps to improve energy efficiency, whether that’s upgrading heating systems, improving insulation, or adopting renewable energy sources. Over time, these changes can significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. 

Why DECs matter 

DECs play a crucial role in promoting energy efficiency in public buildings. By displaying a DEC, building managers make energy consumption transparent, encouraging better energy management practices. A building with a good operational rating efficiently manages energy for heating and cooling, which helps reduce carbon emissions. A lower rating signals the need for improvements to make the building more energy efficient. 

Getting the most out of your DEC

So, what can you do to make sure your DEC is working for you? Start by taking the Recommendation Report seriously. It offers tailored recommendations to improve your building’s energy efficiency. Monitor your building’s energy use and consider practical steps and upgrades that can improve your efficiency rating.

Also, remember that a DEC isn’t just a piece of paper to satisfy regulations. Looking beyond the compliance requirement will help manage energy consumption, save money, and support the journey to a more sustainable future.

Final thoughts

Display Energy Certificates help manage energy use in public buildings and can offer more value than simply meeting your legal compliance. They are a valuable tool to help improve energy efficiency. Understand your DEC and act on the Recommendation Report. This will help improve your building’s energy efficiency, leading to reduced costs and lower carbon emissions.