The commercial minimum energy efficiency standard it set to be changed in 2028, making it mandatory for all commercial buildings to meet new regulatory requirements set by the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES). For assets to remain lettable, commercial buildings must now obtain an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a minimum rating of “C” by 2028. The Mecsia Group are leaders in the technical service industry and our network of companies are at the forefront of leading the essential changes in facilities to optimise energy efficiency in commercial buildings across the UK.

How to Achieve a “C” EPC Rating

A “C” rating on an energy performance certification is equal to a scoring between 69 and 80 points against the Standard Assessment Procedure. The assessment consists of an analysis of a building to determine how energy efficient its facilities are, from its conclusion the procedure will put forward energy saving recommendations for areas of improvement to encourage landlords to increase their buildings energy efficiency to achieve a higher EPC score.  The Mecsia Group is experienced in helping clients to improve the EPC rating of their commercial properties and our commitment to innovation means the implementation of the latest energy efficient technologies to help landlords future-proof their buildings.

Energy Optimisation Strategies to Improve your EPC:

The Mecsia Group strives to stay ahead of the curve and with the revolution of energy efficient technologies it is easy for our industry experts to present sustainable and cost-effective action plans to reduce the energy consumption of commercial buildings.  When looking to optimise the energy consumption of any building, there are some key areas our trained professionals will check to see if improvements can be made:

Checking the Building Infrastructure:

There should be no gaps or weaknesses in the building’s infrastructure. Make sure any cavities have been repaired should they be found. It is important to prevent air from inside the building escaping, as well as protecting the inside of the building from a draught. This will decrease the use of central heating and air conditioning, which is great for increasing energy efficiency, not only does it reduce environmental impact, but it is also more cost-effective too.

Bringing Boilers up to Date:

A building’s heating system is a critical part of the EPC evaluation; any outdated HVAC systems are going to be a drain on energy efficiency. New commercial condenser boilers can achieve up to 97% efficiency compared to cast iron boilers that only reach up to 50% efficiency.

Not only do modern boilers increase your EPC rating, but they are also more cost-effective due to lower running costs and the improved efficiency. Updating a building’s HVAC system is critical for improving energy management and one of the most pivotal implementations on this list.

Invest in Automation. Invest in Thermostats:

Thermostats are an excellent way to improve energy efficiency and rank highly in EPC evaluations. A programmable thermostat can control the temperature automatically therefore helping to improve temperature regulation of any building. It improves both HVAC efficiency and EPC rating.

Light Your Way to a Brighter EPC Rating:

Having the correct lighting is fundamental in lowering energy consumption. It is recommended that many buildings make the switch to LED lighting. These run at a much lower cost and their additional controls mean that the building isn’t lighting empty spaces.

Modernised solutions like LED lighting use 60% less energy to power. Therefore, lowering any commercial building’s energy consumption; their extended lifespan also reduces cost.

Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM):

To keep any system working to its optimum in energy efficiency, it is a good idea to practice regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent inefficient practices. It is recommended to introduce a Building Management System (BMS) to allow external monitoring that ensures operational efficiency of building systems. If there is a fault in the system, it will be easy to assess and diagnose before having a detrimental impact on the building’s energy efficiency.

Achieve Energy Efficiency with The Mecsia Group:

With increasing sustainability across the UK, it is vital for all landlords to consider the energy efficiency of their buildings and start implementing strategies to remain in compliance with the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard. With the vast expertise and knowledge that spans across The Mecsia Group, our technical service and energy specialists will be able to easily help you identify where your business can improve its EPC rating.

If you want to learn more about The Mecsia Group and the companies that can help you with finding your energy efficiency solutions, get to know us here.