The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive has changed – here’s what you need to know
The EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive was recently updated, to improve energy efficiency in the building sector. Here’s our guide to the changes.
Why has it changed?
Buildings are responsible for approximately 40% of energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions in the EU – so there is huge potential for savings.
The new measures aim to accelerate the rate of building renovation towards more energy efficient systems and strengthen the energy performance of new buildings, making them smarter.
What are the main changes?
- Inspection requirements on air conditioning and heating systems have been relaxed.
Inspections will only be required if the system output is more is 70kW or more (previously 12kW). Technical building systems subject to an agreed energy performance standard and systems subject to continual building monitoring and control equipment will not require these assessments. - Electric vehicle recharging points– A certain minimum number of recharging points will be required on new and major renovated residential and non-residential buildings with parking spaces.
- Self-regulating temperature devices: If technically and economically feasible, new buildings will need to be equipped with self-regulating devices for the separate regulation of temperature in each room, or each designated heating zone. Existing buildings will need to be equipped with the above when boilers or other heat generation systems are replaced.
- Non-residential air conditioning systems, air conditioning and ventilation systems, heating systems and combined heating and ventilation systems with an effective rated output over 290kW, must be fitted with building automation and control systems by 2025.
- The definition of “technical building systems” has been extended to include equipment for space heating, space cooling, ventilation, domestic hot water, built-in lighting, building automation and control and/or on-site electricity generation.
- Energy assessment of technical building systems: When technical building systems are installed, replaced or upgraded, the overall energy performance of the altered part or entire system must be assessed. The results will then be passed to the building owner.
- Smart readiness indicator:A new “smart readiness” rating indicator, which is based on assessments on the smart building capability of the building or building unit, will be established.
Timeline and Brexit?
The Directive is due to be transposed into national law by all EU Member States by 3 March 2020.
This date is after 29 March 2019, the date the UK is expected to leave the EU.
We don’t yet know whether the Directive will come into effect in the UK – it depends on the terms of the withdrawal agreement, transitional arrangements and any trade agreement(s).
How can Concept Energy help?
Advice and compliance: If you are a building manager, owner or developer, we can provide you with clear advice on your obligations, and a plan of action.
Inspections and energy performance assessments: We can undertake the required assessments of your building systems to ensure compliance.
Project Management: We can oversee the implementation of various building system upgrades – such as heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting. We can take care of the process from start to finish: from recommending technologies and managing the tender process, right through to installation.
For no obligation advice on the Energy Performance in Buildings Directive, get in touch.
