Energy Performance
Investing in your asset
Investing in solar pv and battery storage may seem daunting and a complicated process but Knight & Day Solar Installations have set out to reduce friction and the challenges associated.
The installation of Solar PV and battery storage have increased exponentially over the last few years due to the realisation that it is a great option for residential homes. It creates autonomy and energy security for homeowners with minimum outlay and can payback in several years.
The housing stock in the UK also means that other types of renewable technologies are often difficult to fit and realise their full potential. Solar PV and battery storage offer a great way to reduce energy costs by generating electricity locally.
The UK's housing stock comprises of circa twenty three million homes that have some of the worst energy ratings in Europe. This is due to the nature of the stock being over one hundred years old for example Victorian, Georgian and Edwardian properties.
These are often sought after by families as they are substantial family homes with amazing build qualities. Unfortunately they suffer from drafts and heat loss due to period features such as sash windows and uninsulated lofts.
This means that general EPC ratings or energy performance certificates are categorised as low or underperforming for these types of properties. Although in fact with some very minor investments these Victorian, Georgian or Edwardian properties can be brought up to a better standard with insulation and draft-proofing.
Properties with really poor EPC ratings have the most to benefit from changes to the building infrastructure such as insulation and energy saving devices plus Solar PV and battery storage.
Properties that have a median rating can also improve considerably with minimal tasks including Solar PV and battery storage.
Properties have a potential to score high with EPC ratings by completing tasks such as installing Solar PV & Battery storage
What is an EPC?
The EPC rating (Energy Performance Certificate rating) in the UK measures the energy efficiency of a property. It evaluates the energy performance of buildings and provides recommendations for improving their efficiency. The rating is a legal requirement when selling, renting, or constructing a property.
Key Aspects of EPC Ratings
- Energy Efficiency Scale
- Properties are rated on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient).
- The rating is accompanied by a numerical score, where higher scores indicate better energy efficiency:
- A (92-100): Extremely efficient
- B (81-91): Very efficient
- C (69-80): Above average efficiency
- D (55-68): Average efficiency
- E (39-54): Below average efficiency
- F (21-38): Poor efficiency
- G (1-20): Very poor efficiency
- Validity
- EPCs are valid for 10 years and must be updated if significant energy-related changes are made to the property.
- Contents of an EPC
- Current Energy Rating: The property’s current efficiency level.
- Potential Energy Rating: The level the property could achieve with recommended improvements.
- Estimated Costs: Projections of energy costs and savings if upgrades are made.
- Recommendations: Specific actions to improve efficiency (e.g., installing insulation, upgrading heating systems, or adding solar panels).
Why Is an EPC Rating Important?
For Property Buyers and Renters:
- Helps understand the potential energy costs and efficiency of the property.
- A higher rating indicates lower energy bills and a smaller environmental impact.
For Property Owners:
- Legal Requirement: EPCs are mandatory when selling or renting properties.
- Higher Market Value: Properties with better ratings may attract higher sale or rental prices.
- Meeting Regulations: Minimum energy efficiency standards exist for rented properties in England and Wales:
- Properties must have an EPC rating of E or better to be legally rented out.
- How to Improve an EPC Rating
- Install Loft and Wall Insulation: Reduces heat loss and energy consumption.
- Upgrade Windows: Use double or triple glazing.
- Replace Old Heating Systems: Modern, energy-efficient boilers or renewable energy systems like heat pumps can boost ratings.
- Use Renewable Energy: Solar panels or wind turbines improve efficiency.
- Switch to LED Lighting: Cuts electricity usage.
- Getting an EPC
- EPCs are issued by accredited domestic energy assessors, who survey the property and provide the certificate.
- Understanding and improving your EPC rating can reduce energy bills, lower carbon emissions, and enhance the property's value or desirability.