Display Energy Certificates (DEC)          

Display Energy Certificates (DEC) help inform visitors about energy use in public buildings and raise public awareness of energy use. DEC are required in public buildings with a total floor area greater than 250 metres square and frequently visited by the public. The DEC must be on display in a prominent location that is clearly visible to the public.  Types of buildings requiring a DEC include leisure centres, hospitals, colleges, museums, community buildings.

How can the Green Business Centre help?

Trained and experienced Green Business Centre DEC Assessors are able, not only to complete the DECs to meet regulatory compliance, but also provide further advice on how energy, carbon emissions and cost savings can be made.

What do DECs show?

DECs show the actual or operational energy performance of public buildings with a rating of A to G. A is the most efficient and G the least efficient. The certificates illustrate actual annual change in CO2 emissions. DECs also provide an advisory report of energy improvement recommendations.

How long does a DEC last for?  

A DEC is valid for 1 year if there is more that 1000 square metres of useful floor space and 10 years if there if there is between 250 and 1000 square metres.

What information is required to complete a DEC assessment?

To calculate how efficiently the building is using its energy the assessor will require the following information including:

• The total floor area of the building.

• Annual energy consumption (electricity, gas).

•   Methods for heating and cooling in the building.

• Heating and cooling controls.

• Lighting types in building.

• Use of onsite renewables.

The DEC Assessor will also undertake a site tour of the building.

Who can undertake DEC assessments?

DEC assessments must be undertaken by a qualified DEC Assessor using government approved OR Calc Software (Operational Rating Software). The energy performance data can be uploaded to the Non Domestic Central Register by the DEC Assessor.

Public buildings required to display a DEC and not doing so can be issued with a £500 penalty charge and £1,000 for not possessing a valid advisory report.