Operational ratings and asset ratings are to be included in the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, but the UK government has failed to publish a timetable for the directive's implementation.

In a written statement published on 14 June, Housing Minister Yvette Cooper announced that the government would adopt a system of calculated asset ratings when energy performance certificates are required upon construction, sale or rent.

The government also committed to the use of operational ratings to show a building's energy in use, as BSj predicted in May

CIBSE described the government's intention to use operational ratings as "a step in the right direction" but called for their wider introduction to all buildings as soon as possible.

In a new development, the minister committed to widen the requirements for the display of certificates to private sector buildings "where it can be demonstrated this is cost-effective".

The statement reaffirms that the government would develop a system of nationally recognised qualifications for those wishing to practice as building, boiler plant and air-conditioning plant energy surveyors.

Industry sources expressed frustration at the "imprecise language" and the government's failure to announce a timetable for the implementation of the EPBD.

Rick Wilberforce from the European Alliance of Companies for Energy Efficiency in Buildings and a member of the Directive Implementation Advisory Group said "The statement from the minister neglects to give a timetable for the directive's implementation as required by the EU."

n The National Energy Foundation has welcomed the government's proposal to implement energy performance certificates as part of the Home Information Pack for house sellers. The packs will be introduced next June and will include information on how to cut energy use.

Source

Building Sustainable Design