The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) was introduced into the UK in 2006 and the end of implementation is now upon us, with the full regime applying from January 2009. The EPBD aims to reduce carbon emissions and increase energy efficiency and includes the introduction of energy certification schemes for buildings. All EU countries are also required to introduce inspections of boilers and other energy hungry appliances. One of the key components which is new to the UK is the regulation of air conditioning systems.
An air conditioning system is defined as any equipment which controls or lowers the temperature of air, or controls the ventilation, humidity or cleanliness of the air in a building. The regulations cover “window box” and split units, as well as large single systems. The scope of the regulations is therefore very wide.
Will this apply to you?
The person controlling the air conditioning system is responsible for obtaining appropriate inspections. This may be the owner of the property, but in many cases will be the tenant or other user of the property.
The trigger for inspections is the capacity of the system. Anything with a rated capacity of over 12 kW will eventually be caught, but during the first phase the regime will apply to systems with output of 250 kW and over.
When must you comply?
The following timetable has been established:
- 4 January 2009 - all air conditioning systems over 250 kW must have had their first inspection.
- 4 January 2011 – all systems over 12 kW must have been inspected.
- New systems over 12 kW installed after January 2008 must have had their first inspection within 5 years of first being put into service.
- All systems covered by the regulations must be inspected every 5 years.
What to do next?
Inspections can only be carried out by qualified and accredited Air Conditioning System Energy Assessors and the reports must follow the convention set out in TM44 (published by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers).
There are many agencies providing these services, but we have an arrangement with a leading firm of energy consultants, which has accredited assessors available throughout the UK. We can quickly and easily put you in touch with a representative to arrange an inspection or to advise on whether the regulations apply to your premises.
Penalties and Bonuses
Inspections are mandatory and failure to comply with the relevant inspections could result in fines of between £300 and £3,500, depending on the rateable value of your building.
In contrast, most energy consultants report that the results of inspections identify ways to achieve far more in energy savings than the cost of the inspection itself.
If you want us to introduce you to the energy consultants we are working with or want to know more about any aspect of the EPBD or other carbon reduction regulations, please contact Gayle Monk at gayle.monk@anthonycollins.com or Emma Young at emma.young@anthonycollins.com or by telephone on 0121 200 3242.