Energy Efficiency Certificates Should Prompt Building Health Check

Aberdeen and Inverness based sustainable energy solutions firm Active is urging businesses to think ahead to January 09 when all commercial property up for sale or rent in Scotland will require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

The EPC is being introduced to give owners and prospective tenants a better understanding of how energy efficient a building really is. The main focus of the EPC is the amount of carbon dioxide that is estimated to be released by the building and the ratings are shown in a scale of A to G, with A being the least polluting.

EPC's are already required for all new builds and as of January 4 2009 all buildings, measuring more than 50 square metres, which are sold or rented out, including business premises, public sector buildings and will require a Certificate.

Ian Nicol, managing director of Active, said: "The way a building is constructed, insulated, heated, ventilated and the type of fuel used, all contribute to its carbon emissions and in turn its energy rating. Now is the ideal time for businesses to give serious thought to their energy needs and consider what steps can be taken to reduce carbon emissions."

The firm, which has offices in Aberdeen and Inverness, is encouraging businesses to consider reviewing their heating and cooling energy solutions. Replacing out of date air conditioning and ventilation systems can help to improve energy efficiency and integrating renewable energy solutions, such as heat pumps and solar panels, can significantly reduce carbon emissions as well as saving money on fuel bills.

"It will not be long before tenants start taking the energy efficiency into consideration when looking to rent office space and landlords who have taken steps to address any problems are likely to find their properties become far more attractive," Mr Nicol continued.

Experts have said that many commercial property owners in Scotland have failed to take action in applying for an EPC. For more information on EPCs, contact Scottish Building Standards.

Active is a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions and is investing £3million in the development of its new headquarters in the Minto Commercial Park, Altens, Aberdeen. The building will be one of the most energy efficient and sustainable buildings in the UK and is expected to open in April 2009.