Emissions watchdog gets second lowest energy rating

The headquarters building of the Dept. for Communities & Local Government (CLG) has now the dubious distinction of being awarded the second lowest rating for it’s Display Energy Certificate or DEC. The building, called Eland House received an ‘F’ rating which is the second lowest rating that can be awarded to a building.

This could cause a great deal of embarrassment to CLG as it is the department whose main responsibilities include improving energy efficiency of public buildings to reduce the carbon emissions. But a CLG spokesman claimed that Eland House is actually not a public building and therefore it is not obligated to display its energy certificate. However, since CLG is charged with the responsibility for awarding DECs, it has taken the initiative of obtaining the certificate and the same has been on display in its reception area since July.

The spokesman added that the main reason behind Eland House getting an ‘F’ certificate is it being fifteen years old and it’s ageing equipment.

A 1990s vintage building, Eland House was opened to business in 1998. CLG has initiated actions to improve the building’s energy rating. These include installation of a combined power and heating unit and improving the air conditioning systems. CLG hopes that once implemented, the measures would take the building’s rating to ‘E’ and eventually to its target of ‘D” energy rating.

As per a new law, all public buildings having more than 1,000 square meters floor area must display their DEC. The law will become effective from coming October.