Display Energy Certificates (DECs) are essential tools designed to show the energy performance of public buildings, including schools and educational institutes. DECs are mandatory for any building occupied by public authorities that exceeds 250 square meters. Without a DEC, required buildings are liable to receive a fine. But what are they for, and how can you ensure you get one if needed?

Understanding Display Energy Certificates (DECs)

A DEC is designed to provide an at-a-glance assessment of a building’s energy efficiency. Buildings are rated on a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient and G the least. This rating system is similar to the energy efficiency ratings given to electrical appliances. The energy efficiency of a building is established by measuring its performance and the efficiency of its services.

Legal requirements and advisory reports

When you obtain a Display Energy Certificate, you are also legally required to have an advisory report. This report details how much energy your building uses, where the energy is used, and how you can reduce energy consumption and save money. It provides suggestions on how to improve your building’s energy performance by optimising energy usage.

Compliance and penalties

Local district councils may periodically check that you comply with the legal requirement of having a DEC. Failing to display your DEC can result in a £500 fine, with an additional £1,000 fine for lacking an advisory report. It is essential to display the DEC in a prominent place, clearly visible to the public at all times.

DEC renewal requirements

The frequency of DEC renewal depends on the size of your building:

• Buildings between 250 and 1,000 square meters: DEC lasts for 10 years.
• Buildings over 1,000 square meters: DEC must be renewed annually.

Advisory reports last for seven years. On large campuses with multiple buildings under 1,000 square meters (such as university campuses), buildings are measured separately unless they are connected by a heated space or share the same heating or cooling system. In such cases, the combined area is considered, and if it exceeds 1,000 square meters, the annual renewal applies.

Applicability of DECs

DECs apply only to buildings occupied by public authorities. Private organisations are not required to have a DEC but may choose to obtain one voluntarily. They might need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) if the building is sold or rented.

Updating and Obtaining DECs

If you want to update your DEC, perhaps after implementing energy efficiency improvements, or if you need to obtain a DEC for your building, contact Zenergi. We use fully accredited and experienced DEC assessors who are DBS checked. Our process includes:

1. Visiting your premises and validating the previous year’s utility invoices.
2. Collecting relevant data and inputting it into government-approved software.
3. Producing a thorough advisory report detailing potential energy savings.
4. Submitting the DEC and advisory report to the official government database.
5. Sending the DEC and advisory report to you in a convenient format.

Benefits of DECs and advisory Reports

A DEC and its accompanying advisory report are more than just compliance tools; they help your organisation take control of energy efficiency. The advisory report identifies target areas to enhance energy efficiency and conservation, which can significantly reduce utility costs for your organisation.

If you have any questions about DECs or other energy compliance regulations, please get in touch. We’re happy to help.