December 2025 is drawing near – did you know that you may need to ensure an Energy Performance Certificate (“EPC”) is available for your building and December 2025 marks the expiry of the amnesty period. We explore this …
The “energy performance” of a building is defined as the net energy used per sqm, measured in kW hours, to meet the needs of the use of the particular building. These needs may include heat, hot water heating or cooling, cooling in general, ventilation and lighting. The consumption by garages, car parks and storage areas, as well as outdoor services are excluded.
In December 2020 the government gazetted a further regulation to the National Energy Act 34 of 1998 (“NEA”). The regulation requires the mandatory display and submission of an EPC for certain buildings.
Buildings occupied by an organ of state with a net floor area of over 1000 sqm, as well as other owned and occupied non-residential buildings over 2000 sqm are to comply with this regulation.
The EPC can be applied for and obtained from the South African National Energy Development Institute (“SANEDI”). SANEDI was established by the NEA. SANEDI keeps a register of such EPCs. An EPC sets out the grading of the building, whether A, B, C to G. An EPC is valid for five years and will need to be renewed after five years, alternatively when major renovations are made on the building, renovation requiring planning and approval from the local authority.
Conclusion
Don’t be caught being diffused of energy by someone switching off your lights, when you have not ensured what the grading of switching on your lights is.
Contact
For any clarity or more information relating to the above, please contact Hayley Appel (LPC49915), an Attorney, Conveyancer and Notary at Tuckers Attoenry 011 897 1900, hayley@tuckers.co.za