The current Building Energy Rating (BER) system for homes is set to receive a significant update next month, aiming to simplify the framework and align it with a standardised classification used across the European Union.
Here is a breakdown of what these changes will involve, reports The Mirror.
- The EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) will improve consistency across member states in how BER ratings are displayed. Under the directive, the revised scale will use a simpler A-to-G format. A new ‘A0’ category will also be introduced for zero-emission homes with exceptionally strong energy performance that do not depend on fossil fuels.
- Most properties will not be immediately affected by these changes, as existing BER certificates will remain valid for required purposes, such as property sales or rentals, for up to 10 years from the date they were issued. The new system will only apply when a fresh certificate is issued after May 24 this year, reports The Mirror.
- The redesigned BER certificate will include extra details on zero-emission performance, greenhouse gas output, and the use of renewable energy within the home. It will also provide guidance on cost-effective improvements to boost energy efficiency and lower operational emissions.
- All existing BER certificates will continue to be valid for a decade unless major renovation work has taken place. BER ratings allow buyers and renters to fairly compare the energy performance of different homes. They also offer an indication of energy efficiency, along with expected heating costs and carbon emissions required to maintain a comfortable living environment, reports The Mirror.
- The current system is similar to energy labels seen on household appliances, grading homes from A to G but with 15 subcategories such as A1, A2, A3, B1, B2, and so on.
- Homes with an A rating are the most energy-efficient and comfortable, while G-rated properties are the least efficient and typically require significantly more energy to heat, reports The Mirror.
- Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne TD said, “The introduction of an ‘A0’ energy rating sets the stage for a far higher level of energy efficiency and improved comfort in new homes from 2030 onwards. For the existing housing stock, my Department has been working to roll out these BER rating changes, arising from a new EU directive, in a way that limits the impact on households in Ireland. Most homes will not be affected, as all existing BER certificates will remain valid for 10 years from their issue date. All currently valid BERs will continue to meet mandatory requirements such as sale or rental,” reports The Mirror.
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