KJ Tait

EPC B Pathways

The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) minimum level of EPC is expected to be strengthened to a ‘B’ level EPC in England by 2030 for non-domestic buildings. Through collaboration between our Modellers, M&E Engineers and Facilities Engineers, we can offer a guidance on a pathway of upgrading works to comply with the standard that is technically feasible and is in line with the plant replacement strategy of the building.

The new EPC calculation method (Part L 2021) penalises the use of gas so to comply, new heating options need to be considered in place of gas fired boilers.

KJ Tait offers a market leading service for complying with the strengthening of the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) for rented non-domestic properties in England to EPC level ‘B’ by 2030 through our EPC ‘B’ Pathway service. This service incorporates our M&E Design Engineers, Facilities Engineers and EPC Assessors to establish the technical pathway to achieving the EPC ‘B’ standard.

At KJ Tait, we have standardised our auditing approach so that all issues relevant to an EPC Assessment are captured on our site visit. These include:

  • Walk round of the building plant recording equipment manufacturers and rating plates
  • Measurement of plant room and roof for potential replacement heating systems along with taking 3D pictures
  • Review of riser space
  • Full review of Building Management System to understand how systems operate with a view to providing advice on reducing energy consumption in-use
  • Walk round of tenanted areas recording lighting systems, internal floor layouts and fabric
  • Full review of electrical/mechanical/architectural operation and maintenance manuals

We use IES VE to create a Dynamic Simulation Model to establish what the EPC rating is. Reviewing the information gathered from site, our M&E Engineers establish the technical and economic feasibility of HVAC replacement strategy that focuses on decarbonising the heating system taking into account the age of installations, riser/roof/plant room space and coil sizes/flow rates. The resultant recommendations are modelled within the EPC modelling to ensure that any replacement installation can meet the ‘B’ standard.

With the feasibility complete, our Facilities Engineers work with the building team to put forward a costed plan for the upgrades.

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