Last week, I had the opportunity to sit down with Laura Bennett, an accredited energy assessor who has been working in the field for over a decade. With the rising importance of energy efficiency and sustainability, I was keen to understand the intricacies behind the calculation of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) in the UK. Laura’s experience in assessing a diverse range of properties provided a comprehensive perspective on the process and its significance.
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As we settled into the interview, Laura began by explaining the foundational aspects of an EPC. “An Energy Performance Certificate is essential for any property transaction, whether it’s being built, sold, or rented,” she noted. “It provides a snapshot of the property’s energy efficiency through a rating system that ranges from A, which is very efficient, to G, which is inefficient. This rating helps potential buyers or tenants gauge the running costs and environmental impact of the property.”
The conversation naturally flowed into the technicalities of how an EPC is calculated. According to Laura, the process is governed by a Standard Assessment Method (SAM). “SAM is quite comprehensive,” she explained. “It evaluates the build quality of the property, including its size and shape, the heating and hot water systems, the type of glazing and insulation, and how the space is utilised.”
Laura detailed the three primary assessments carried out during an EPC evaluation: the fabric energy efficiency, the internal environment, and renewable technologies. “The fabric energy efficiency looks at how well the building keeps heat in,” she elaborated. “This involves examining the thermal conductivity of materials used in the construction and the levels of insulation. The external dimensions of the building are crucial here, as they influence how much heat is lost through walls, windows, and doors.”
Moving onto the internal environment, Laura highlighted the importance of assessing factors like airtightness, ventilation, and lighting. “Airtightness can significantly impact draughts and heat loss,” she said. “Good ventilation is key to maintaining moisture levels and indoor air quality, whereas lighting affects both heating costs and carbon emissions.”
The third assessment focuses on renewable technologies. Laura’s eyes lit up as she spoke about the growing adoption of solar panels and wind turbines. “These technologies can make a substantial difference in a property’s energy efficiency,” she remarked. “It’s exciting to see more homeowners investing in renewables to not only reduce their energy bills but also their carbon footprint.”
Laura also walked me through the practical side of an EPC survey. “When I visit a property, I collect detailed information about its dimensions, the heating and hot water systems, and the insulation and glazing,” she said. “This data is fed into specialised software that generates the EPC rating. The final certificate, complete with recommendations for improvements, is published to the government register and sent directly to the client within 24 to 48 hours.”
For those looking to improve their property’s EPC rating, Laura advised considering the recommendations provided in the certificate. “Often, simple changes like upgrading insulation or installing more efficient lighting can make a notable difference,” she suggested. “However, it’s important to weigh these improvements against costs, feasibility, and their impact on the property’s occupants.”
Throughout our discussion, Laura emphasised the broader context of energy efficiency. “While the EPC is a valuable tool, it’s not the only factor to consider when making energy efficiency improvements,” she advised. “A comprehensive analysis of all factors, including cost and impact, should guide any decision.”
Reflecting on my conversation with Laura, it became clear that obtaining an EPC is more than just a legal requirement; it’s a step towards understanding and enhancing the energy efficiency of a property. As we parted ways, I felt equipped with a newfound appreciation for the meticulous work that goes into producing an EPC and the potential it holds for promoting sustainable living.
Tobiasz Karcz
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