What is an EPC?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legally required verification of the energy utilisation and efficiency of a building. A certificate remains valid for five years, then recertification is required.
Is an EPC required for your building?
Property owners are required to certify privately-owned buildings larger than 2000 m2 in these categories:
- Offices
- Entertainment and public assembly (restaurants, night clubs, sports pubs, gyms, etc)
- Places of instruction (schools, colleges, universities, Technikons)
- Theatrical and indoor sport (movie theatres, live theatres, etc)
Government buildings larger than 1000 m2 also need to comply.
Penalties for failure to comply
It’s estimated that around 250 000 buildings still require certification.
Which one is yours?
South African Law
Non-compliance will be in contravention of section 20 of the National Energy Act and the penalty is a fine of ZAR5 million, five years imprisonment, or both.
Benefits of energy efficient buildings
Our company and values
Following EPC rules as a building owner will allow you to determine where you may implement energy-saving solutions that:
Reduce the cost of operating your building to save you money.
Boost the building’s worth
Improve the working environment
Help remove the limited national grid’s demand for power.
Cut back on carbon emissions to aid in the fight against climate change.
A high EPC rating influences the property’s market value and draws and keeps renters.