Display Energy Certificate – DEC

What is a Display Energy Certificate (DEC)?

• A DEC shows the actual energy performance of a public building based on its energy consumption over the past 12 months.
• It uses a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) to rate the building’s energy performance.
• The DEC must be accompanied by an Advisory Report (AR), which provides recommendations for improving energy efficiency.

When is a DEC Required?

A DEC is required for a public building if all of the following conditions are met:

1. Occupancy:
   • The building is at least partially occupied by a public authority (e.g., local councils, schools, colleges, NHS trusts, leisure centres, government offices).
2. Floor Area:
   • The building has a total useful floor area of over 250 square metres.
3. Public Access:
   • The building is frequently visited by the public.

Validity of DECs:

• Buildings over 1,000 square metres:
  • DECs are valid for 1 year.
  • A new DEC must be produced annually.
• Buildings between 250 and 1,000 square metres:
  • DECs are valid for 10 years.
  • However, the Advisory Report (AR) must be updated every 7 years.

Display Requirements:

• Public authorities must display the DEC in a prominent place that is clearly visible to the public (e.g., near the building’s entrance).
• Failure to display a DEC can result in a fine of £500.

Advisory Report (AR):

• The AR provides recommendations for improving the building’s energy efficiency.
• It includes:
  • Cost-effective measures to reduce energy consumption.
  • Estimated payback periods for recommended improvements.
• While the recommendations are not mandatory, they can help public authorities save energy and reduce costs.

Enforcement and Penalties:

• Local authorities are responsible for enforcing DEC requirements.
• Failure to comply with DEC regulations can result in:
  • A fine of £500 for not displaying a DEC.
  • Additional penalties for not producing a DEC or Advisory Report when required.

DECs in Scotland:

• In Scotland, public buildings are required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) instead of a DEC.
• The EPC must be displayed in a prominent location, similar to DEC requirements in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

How to Obtain a DEC:

1. Hire an Accredited Energy Assessor:
   • Only qualified and accredited energy assessors can produce DECs and Advisory Reports.
2. Provide Energy Data:
   • The assessor will need 12 months of energy consumption data (e.g., electricity, gas, or other fuels) for the building.
3. Display the DEC:
   • Once issued, the DEC must be displayed prominently in the building.

Why Are DECs Important?

1. Transparency:
   • DECs provide the public with information about the energy efficiency of public buildings.
2. Energy Savings:
   • The recommendations in the Advisory Report can help public authorities reduce energy consumption and costs.
3. Environmental Impact:
   • Improving energy efficiency contributes to reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.

What to Do If You Can’t Find a DEC:

• If you visit a public building and cannot find the DEC, you should:
  • Contact the occupier of the building (e.g., the council, school, or NHS trust) and request to see the DEC.
  • Report the issue to the local authority if the DEC is not displayed.

Summary of Key Points:

• DECs are required for public buildings over 250 square metres that are frequently visited by the public.
• DECs are valid for 1 year (buildings over 1,000 square metres) or 10 years (buildings between 250 and 1,000 square metres).
• The DEC must be displayed prominently, and failure to do so can result in a £500 fine.
• In Scotland, public buildings require an EPC instead of a DEC.

If you are responsible for a public building, ensure you comply with DEC regulations to avoid penalties and demonstrate your commitment to energy efficiency. For assistance with obtaining a DEC or Advisory Report, contact an accredited energy assessor today!