Introduction
The Assessment of Energy Performance of Non-Domestic Buildings (Scotland) Regulations 2016 will come into force in September.
This will impose a duty on owners of a “building unit” with more than 1,000 square metres to improve the energy performance of the property. There will be exceptions to this requirement, but not many.
This new change to energy-performance regulations means that, in addition to the requirement to produce an EPC, there will be an accompanying - agreed - action plan outlining steps to carry out any improvements. The improvements specified in this action plan must be carried out within 42 months of the date on which it is issued, with a follow-up EPC arranged to ensure this occurred. If the owner chooses to defer carrying out the works they will be required to produce an annual display energy certificate, to record and report on the continuing energy consumption and emissions of the premises.
Why is this Important?
Although the initial property-coverage is small - only those over 1000 square metres are captured - the Scottish commitment to address global greenhouse-gas reduction suggests that over time the vast majority of all Scottish properties will be assessed in this way. Northern Commercial’s advice is to prepare for this eventuality sooner rather than later.
What are the Benefits?
Careful energy-performance consideration and planning for your property portfolio – no matter how small - minimises risk to sudden time and money demands on your business. Northern Commercial also believe that being seen to progress energy improvement facilitates confidence within your clients; increasing probability of their long-term commitment to you.
Of course you are then also seen to be one of the growing companies providing positive stewardship for the environment that you and our children ultimately require.
Let Northern Commercial guide you and your clients through the complexity of the energy conundrum. Speak to us today about a stepwise approach to energy management.