EPC Rating Services for commercial property
Will you ‘B’ ready?
Commercial EPCs (Energy Performance Certificates) are crucial for all non-domestic properties. The latest UK government white paper targets all commercial properties in England and Wales to achieve a ‘C’ rating by 2027 and a ‘B’ rating by 2030.
We are energy innovators. We are performance optimisers. We are difference makers.
Sustainable buildings are essential for achieving net zero carbon by 2050. Improving EPC ratings is critical to meeting new regulations and the growing focus on reducing carbon emissions by enhancing energy efficiency. With sustainability, building certification and reporting/disclosure specialists all under one roof, Sweco can guide you to energy performance compliance with comprehensive NonDomestic Energy Assessor (NDEA) support, and subsequent decarbonisation design as required.
What is a commercial Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?
A commercial EPC is a standardised document that rates the energy efficiency of non-domestic buildings on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certification process offers actionable recommendations for improving energy performance, reducing operational costs and enhancing a property’s appeal.
EPC Levels:
Simple buildings (e.g., small shops, restaurants)
Complex
with advanced HVAC systems (e.g., large offices)
EPC Requirements and Compliance
All non-domestic buildings must have a minimum EPC rating of ‘E’ (since 1 April 2023).
By 2027, a rating of at least ‘C’ is required.
By 2030, buildings must achieve a minimum rating of ‘B’. Failure to comply may result in penalties or restrictions.
Buildings with specific features requiring detailed modelling
Our EPC rating services
Full EPC Assessment Surveys
As your NDEA (Non-Domestic Energy Assessor), we will visit the commercial property to collect essential data including room dimensions, lighting, insulation levels and heating systems. We will also take measurements and photographs.
Our commercial EPCs are calculated using an approved software program per the National Calculation Methodology, assessing the energy efficiency of a building’s fabric, heating and ventilation systems. Sweco uses the Integrated Environmental Systems (IES) VE Compliance software, a Dynamic Simulation Model (DSM) approved by the Department for Communities and Local Government, to ensure accurate EPC assessments.
EPC Optimisation
Sweco offers EPC optimisation studies for commercial projects in early design stages and retrofits which incorporate analysis of building services and operational practices to identify energy efficiency improvement opportunities. By focusing on actual energy performance and aligning with frameworks like NABERS UK, Sweco delivers tailored EPC solutions that meet regulatory requirements and enhance building sustainability.
Our experts will provide a final commercial EPC, including all necessary legal details, asset ratings, and technical information, plus a separate document outlining recommendations for improving energy performance.
Energy Feasibility Studies
Based on the EPC, we can offer detailed advice and feasibility proposals on the practical steps needed to achieve Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) and government targets. Our team of MEP engineers, sustainability experts and ESG specialists will guide you through each requirement, helping you to meet your goals and reduce your building’s energy demand.
Full Decarbonisation Strategy & Design
Partnering with Sweco’s NDEAs for your EPC service not only ensures compliance with current regulations but also paves the way for a strategic partnership with other green building certifications and sustainability assessments such as BREEAM1, LEED2, WELL3, and ESG4
With Sweco’s expertise in MEP design, energy efficiency and sustainability clients you can seamlessly integrate your EPC initiatives with broader sustainability goals, enhancing the overall performance and marketability of your buildings. By leveraging our comprehensive approach, your organisation can achieve higher energy ratings while simultaneously working towards certifications that promote health, wellbeing, and environmental stewardship. This collaborative effort not only demonstrates a commitment to sustainability but also positions your asset as a leader in the green building movement, attracting environmentally conscious tenants and investors alike.
Our in-house, multi-disciplinary, sustainability and energy consultancy will ensure that your asset’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is robust and future-proof, while providing the most cost-effective solution. Our objective is to not only meet and exceed legal requirements, but also to contribute to Net Zero Carbon by 2050.
Liva Balode Senior Sustainability Consultant
Let’s transform society together
Future-proofing performance
By drawing on our global expertise alongside unrivalled local insights and experience, we can work with you to measure, reduce and report on your building asset performance in line with increasing ESG demands and obligations.
Our dedicated UK team and global experts will help you plan, design and oversee energy performance optimisation measures across your building assets, both for and beyond commercial EPC assessment.
Kartik Amrania Head of Building
Sustainability kartik.amrania@sweco.co.uk
Vikram Kanade Executive Energy Performance Consultant vikram.kanade@sweco.co.uk
Footnotes:
1 BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method): A sustainability assessment method for masterplanning projects, infrastructure, and buildings, focusing on improving environmental performance.
2 LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): A globally recognised green building certification program that promotes sustainable construction practices and resource efficiency.
3 WELL: A building standard that focuses on enhancing the health and wellbeing of occupants through improved building design and operation.
4 ESG: Environmental, Social, and Governance criteria used to evaluate a company’s ethical impact and sustainability practices.
We’re here to guide you through the green transition
The green transition is a global shift towards sustainable practices and technologies aimed at reducing environmental impact, combating climate change, and promoting circular economy methodology.
For Sweco, looking at projects through the green transition lens is key to our Transforming society together mission, allowing us to act as true #DifferenceMakers as we change the world around us one project at a time across buildings, critical infrastructure and mobility.
By drawing on our 200+ disciplines – both individually and by working together under a collaborative service-wrap – we aim to be a role model in the green transition, and be a key part of the answer to society’s sustainability and carbon reduction challenges.
Our commitment?
To challenge our clients – and ourselves – to deliver innovative energy, transport, urban, water and industry solutions through approachable consultancy, highquality design and technical excellence across our service portfolio. All under one roof as your trusted, go-to consultancy.