Display Energy Certificate (DEC) | UK Public Buildings
A Display Energy Certificate (DEC) provides information about the operational energy performance of qualifying public buildings. Unlike an EPC, which is based primarily on the building’s characteristics and designed performance, a DEC reflects the building’s actual energy use.
Our energy consultants provide DEC assessments to help relevant building operators meet certification requirements and understand operational energy performance.
Operational Energy Assessment
A DEC is based on the actual energy consumption of a building over the relevant assessment period. This provides a useful indication of how efficiently the building is being operated.
The assessment can highlight differences between expected and actual energy performance and identify areas where energy management could be improved.
Public Buildings
DECs apply to certain buildings occupied by public authorities and regularly visited by members of the public, subject to the applicable requirements.
We assess the relevant building information and energy consumption data to produce the required certification.
Energy Performance Improvement
Understanding operational energy performance can help building managers identify opportunities to reduce consumption.
Recommendations can include improvements to building controls, heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting and operational practices where appropriate.
Ongoing Energy Management
A DEC can form part of a wider energy management strategy. Comparing energy performance over time can help organisations assess whether efficiency measures are delivering the intended results.
Our consultants can provide practical advice to help clients understand their building’s energy performance and identify opportunities for improvement.
What are the penalties for failing to display a DEC?
The penalty is £500 for failing to display a DEC in a prominent place – clearly visible to the public – at all times, and £1,000 for failing to have possession of a valid Advisory Report. A maximum fine of £5,000 may be imposed dependent on the nature of the breach of regulations.
Which types of buildings are affected?
Only buildings with a total useful floor area of 250m2 that are occupied, or part occupied, either by public authorities and institutions offering public services to large volumes of people are affected by this legislation.
Where a building is partly occupied by a public authority, or a relevant institution, the authority or institution handles displaying a DEC and having a valid Advisory Report.
Other private organisations occupying the building, irrespective of the size they occupy, do not need to display a DEC.
