Display Energy Certificate (DEC)

Display Energy Certificates (DECs) show the actual energy usage of a public building (the Operational Rating) and allow the public to see the energy efficiency of a building. This is based on the energy consumption of the building as recorded by gas, electricity and other meters. The DEC should be displayed at all times in a prominent place clearly visible to the public. A DEC is always accompanied by an Advisory Report that lists cost effective measures to improve the energy rating of the building.

DECs are only required for buildings with a total useful floor area greater than 500 m², that are occupied by a public authority or an institution providing a public service to a large number of people, and are frequently visited by members of the public. DECs are valid for one year. The accompanying Advisory Report is valid for 7 years

Widely seen as a vital tool in driving energy efficiency in buildings, DECs are currently required only in buildings occupied by the public sector over 500 m². Evidence is already emerging of the value of DECs in those buildings, with many achieving substantial year-on-year reductions in energy costs and improvements to their ratings