The purpose of the EPC.
Many people are firmly convinced that the ‘purpose’ of the EPC, both domestic and commercial, is as a basis for ‘green’ taxation. In years to come it is believed that rates or council tax assessments will be based in part on the CO2 rating of property as recorded by an EPC. It appears to be an extremely logical way to tax buildings on the same way as vehicles, and thereby to highlight and bear down on CO2 emissions. A central database of all the EPC ratings is being gathered, and the assessment includes an acknowledgement of ‘historic status’ for buildings, for which allowances would be made in the calculation of tax. Although no confirmation has been found or announced, many think it too logical to be otherwise.
The purpose of the Air-Conditioning Energy Inspection.
It is felt that this is a more genuine attempt to ensure that buildings with the largest energy consumption are scrutinised. A building with Air-conditioning typically uses 40% more electricity that an equivalent un-conditioned building, 12KW of installed air-con indicates a reasonably significant load, and a worthwhile target for review and improvement.
The method and scope of the inspection is prescribed by the legislation, and does not simply require an audit of the system’s maintenance. The scope includes the operation of the equipment by the users, and the ‘appropriateness’ if the installation with regard to the space, people and equipment it serves. It is an ‘holistic’ review of the system designed to highlight in-efficiency in all aspects of operation.
New, well-maintained and well-operated systems are likely to have few improvements to make. However, the great majority of systems are expected to have energy-saving recommendations which will offset if not fully cover the cost of the inspection.
Independence in Air-Conditioning Energy Inspection.
It is strongly recommended that an ‘independent’ air-con energy inspector is engaged. Appointing a person who is connected to your usual maintenance contractor will lead to a conflict of interest. This may arise in the reporting of the maintenance aspects of the inspection, and in the recommendations for further work and possible capital expenditure.