The joint values of an EPC and DEC
Having obtained a Energy Performance Certificate typical for a building of existing stock, the occupier of Alexandra House, the head office of the Police Mutual Association, was pleased but surprised — having expected a much worse rating.
However, the assessor, I-prophets, explained that their expectation was a misunderstanding between the design of the building and how they were occupying it. And it was the associated recommendations that won the award for EPC of the year from a low-carbon energy assessor. The reality was that the building was relatively well designed. The question was if it was being managed well or not?
Alexandra House was originally built in 1970 as a 3-storey office development. Extensions were added in 1990 and 2000.
Improvements made during the life of the property included improved lighting, replacing heating plant and improving glazing. As a result, the recommendations made were relatively high-level ones.
The major recommendation was a consideration of the holistic design of the HVAC system. There are effectively four different systems in place due to construction phases. Scope for interaction was poor, relying on the knowledge of the facilities manager to take appropriate manual action to maintain comfort. This was seen as a weak point, leading to the recommendation of starting a building log book to document operational parameters and issues, leading the way for positive change.
The strongest recommendation was to encourage the production of a Display Energy Certificate. Although not required under the Energy Performance in Buildings Directive, this was seen as the most effective way to highlight that the asset rating is only the potential of the building. The resultant DEC led to significant internal changes. The recommendations were mainly specific to people, driving operational efficiency through the company.
