Building energy rating

A building energy rating (BER) is similar to the energy rating label for a household electrical appliance (examples of which include the U.S. EnergyGuide, the European Union energy label, and the Australia/New Zealand energy rating label). The label has a scale of A-G, with A-rated buildings the most energy efficient and G the least. In relation to dwellings, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland states that "A BER is an indication of the energy performance of a home. It covers energy use for space heating, water heating, ventilation and lighting calculated on the basis of standard occupancy."[1] A BER assessment and certificate may be compulsory to sell a building or shortly after its construction. Methods of calculations and legislations related to BER may be different from one country to another. BER was created as a tool to help monitoring and improving the overall building energy efficiency.

Building Energy Rating in Ireland

In Ireland, each new dwelling built from January 1, 2007 required a BER, unless planning application was lodged prior to December 31, 2006. From January 1, 2009, it became illegal to offer a dwelling for sale without BER.

From July 1, 2008 a BER is necessary for new non-residential buildings where planning permission is required. From January 1, 2009 a BER is required for existing non-residential buildings, when offered for sale or to let.[2]

The Statutory Instrument regulating the requirements for BER is "S.I. 666 of 2006". It is Ireland's implementation of the Directive on the energy performance of buildings

References
  1. Extract from the website of Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland "BER what is it?"
  2. www.seai.ie
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