The energy performance of a building is currently measured on a scale of A-G, with A being the most efficient and G the least. Since 2018 buildings need a minimum energy performance certificate (EPC) of E or higher for them to be compliant with minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) in order to rent it out.
If you are leasing out your commercial property then you are likely to be looking for ways to meet the MEES for your building if it is not yet compliant. You can find out more information on MEES here.
Improving the energy efficiency of your commercial property can seem complex at first. This is why we have some simple solutions to improve the energy efficiency rating to help. Here are five different options that you might consider:
Solar Panels
If your building is suitable, you can use your roof space to add solar panels and reduce your electricity demand by harnessing the natural energy of sunlight. This will reduce your carbon footprint as electricity is produced using gas. Instead, you can generate your own source of electricity during the daylight hours.
For buildings that have high electricity consumption, such as warehousing, this can reduce electricity costs and also improve your energy rating.
Lighting
Switching your high-energy consumption lights for a low energy option like LED is a really simple way to improve the performance rating of your building. It also has an added bonus of improving the quality of lighting for your tenants.
Efficient boilers
Switching to energy efficient boilers and heating systems within the property makes a difference in the costs of heating the building and its EPC rating.
Individual boilers come with their own product rating so when installing a new boiler, you can check the efficiency rating with your professional installer as some are more efficient than others. Where possible, a renewable heating system is a good option to heat your premises.
There are government incentives available for renewable heat systems.
Sensors
We know that getting people to turn out the lights when they are not using them is not always straightforward. Sensors can be placed in hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms to make it easier to ensure that lights are only on when needed.
Insulation
By adding insulation to your building, you can reduce the heat loss through walls. This will reduce your energy demand as it will keep the heat in for longer. Equally, in the summer, it will help keep the heat out.
Check how well your external walls and ceiling are able to keep heat inside. Insulating drafts, roofing, and thinner walls with a blanket of wool-based padding or insulation boards. This will keep heat from escaping. Likewise, using double glazing will create an extra layer to trap the heat. This means your building will stay warmer for longer and you do not need to run your boiler as often.
Whether you use one or all of these to increase your EPC rating, you can be sure that they will save money in the long term. While you may not be the one paying the energy bills, commercial properties with lower bills are more attractive to potential tenants. Equally, by meeting the MEES you will be avoiding a potential fine.
