Bring on the Euro-directive

Energy prices and sustainability considerations have graduated to the top of the agenda and are here to stay for some considerable time.

A number of interesting issues were highlighted. Whether in the residential or commercial sector, the only way to monitor buildings is for them to be energy rated. Therefore the implementation of the European Union’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, which requires each building to be assessed and awarded an energy rating, needs to be implemented at the earliest opportunity.

The RICS’ report showing the commercial case for “green” buildings should show building owners and investors the benefits of taking energy rating and conservation issues seriously. In a mature market, such issues should be able to be absorbed and dealt with efficiently. With a little effort by all parties a significant saving on energy consumption will be possible, which will result in a reduction in the carbon footprints of buildings.

There are a significant and growing number of councils that require energy efficiency measures to be included in new build that go beyond the existing standards. It must surely only be a matter of time before national government evens the playing field for all and sets a national standard for new build and existing dwellings.

There are growing calls in the UK for speedier progress in energy conservation matters. Now is the ideal opportunity to set the national benchmark standards and for the government to announce the timescale for the full implementation of energy certification on all buildings.