Display Energy Certificates (DECs) show the actual energy usage of a building – also known as the operational rating – and help the public see how energy efficient a building is. They look a
bit like the energy rating notice displayed on fridges and other white goods,
with ratings from A to G. All County Council owned buildings with a total useful floor area of more than 1,000 m2 are obliged to have a DEC, which should be clearly displayed at all times.
A DEC should always be accompanied by an advisory report that contains recommendations for improving the energy performance of the building. DECs are valid for one year and must be reviewed each year thereafter. The advisory report is valid for seven years. DECs and advisory reports can only be produced
by appropriately accredited energy assessors.
There are financial penalties for failing to
display a DEC at all times in a prominent place, clearly visible to the public,
and for failing to have possession of a valid advisory report.
The Council's participation agreement for the
provision of Display Energy Certificates provides value for money in meeting
schools' legal requirements in this area, removing some of the burden involved
and allowing us to keep track of progress in our work to try and make our
schools more energy efficient.
Further information:
Checking a public building's energy performance
Display Energy Certificates (DECs)
