Display Energy Certificates (DECs) play a critical role in assessing a building’s energy efficiency, offering a clear and standardised way to measure and display energy performance. For building operators and facility managers, DECs are more than just a compliance requirement – they influence operational strategies and decision-making, driving cost savings and improvements in sustainability.

Building Management Systems (BMS) can help to drive a better DEC rating by providing tools to monitor, manage and optimise energy usage. Let’s explore how BMS technology supports improved energy efficiency and enhances DEC scores.

Understanding building management systems and DECs

What are building management systems (BMS)?

Building Management Systems (BMS), also referred to as Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS), are centralised control systems designed to monitor and manage a building’s energy and operational process. This includes heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting and other critical infrastructure.

What are DECs, and why are they important?

DECs provide an energy efficiency rating for public buildings based on energy consumption data. They are essential for highlighting energy performance, benchmarking improvements and ensuring compliance with government regulations. A better DEC rating not only enhances the building’s operational credibility but also signals its commitment to sustainability.

The link between BMS and a better DEC rating

A well-implemented BMS offers real-time monitoring and data-driven insights that help optimise energy performance, directly improving DEC ratings. By reducing energy consumption, enhancing occupant comfort, and providing actionable data, a BMS is an indispensable tool for achieving sustainable energy goals.

How BMS improves energy efficiency for better DECs

Monitoring and control of energy Usage

A BMS allows facility managers to continuously monitor energy usage across multiple systems, identifying inefficiencies and areas for improvement. By providing real-time data and control, it ensures that energy is consumed only when and where needed.

Reducing energy consumption and costs

DECs are more than a compliance tickbox – it’s also about cutting costs. A BMS enables automated controls, such as scheduling systems to power down during non-operational hours, ensuring significant reductions in energy consumption and lower utility bills.

Enhancing occupant comfort while saving energy

A key challenge for facility managers is balancing energy efficiency with occupant comfort. A BMS achieves this by maintaining optimal environmental conditions, such as consistent indoor temperatures, without unnecessary energy expenditure.

Key benefits of using a BMS for a better DEC rating

Long-term energy efficiency gains

A BMS investment yields sustained energy savings over time. Through continuous optimisation and adaptation to building usage patterns, facility managers can achieve improved energy efficiency year after year.

Enhanced reporting and insights

BMS systems provide advanced reporting tools, offering facility managers a detailed view of energy usage trends. This data supports strategic planning and simplifies compliance with DEC requirements.

Compliance and sustainability

With regulatory pressures increasing, achieving better DECs has become a priority for organisations. A BMS not only ensures compliance but also supports broader sustainability initiatives, such as carbon footprint reduction and achieving net zero goals.

Steps to optimise your BMS for a better DEC rating

Conduct an initial energy audit

Assess current energy usage and identify inefficiencies to set a baseline for improvements by conducting an energy audit.

Upgrade to smart management systems

Invest in advanced BMS technology that incorporates machine learning for predictive maintenance and optimisation.

Customise control settings

Tailor system settings to the building’s operational requirements, ensuring energy is not wasted in low-usage areas.

Leverage real-time data

Use real-time analytics to make immediate adjustments, preventing energy wastage and maintaining peak performance.

Challenges and solutions in using a BMS to better your DEC rating

While a BMS offers transformative potential, implementation can come with challenges, such as high initial costs, complexity in integration with older systems and the need for specialised expertise. These challenges can be mitigated by:

• Partnering with experienced providers, like Zenergi.
• Gradually integrating systems to spread costs.
• Investing in staff training to maximise system potential.

Conclusion: How Zenergi can help

Achieving a better DEC rating by integrating a Building Management System isn’t just about technology, it’s about having the right expertise to make it work for your building’s unique needs. At Zenergi, we specialise in tailored energy management solutions that not only enhance DEC performance but also support long-term sustainability and cost efficiency.