The energy efficiency of a property is becoming increasingly important. In the face of imminent climate change, rising electricity prices, and dependence on energy sources from outside Spain, we must look for alternatives to reduce electricity costs and our ecological footprint. The Energy Certificate G is one of the main issues that arise when trying to meet this objective.
A large percentage of the Spanish population has this certificate for their homes. This is because a large proportion of Spanish homes were built more than 50 years ago and, therefore, their conditions and structure in terms of energy efficiency are quite poor.
Reducing the number of properties with an Energy Certificate G is essential, while also seeking new resources to ensure that the increase in homes with an Energy Certificate A becomes a reality.
At Inditer, we are committed to generating the lowest possible impact on the environment. That is why the industrial HVAC and refrigeration equipment we sell reduces energy consumption and helps companies maintain better management of their energy efficiency.
We provide services and products that guarantee environmental sustainability by operating under the Integrated Quality, Environmental, and Occupational Health and Safety Management System, made up of the ISO 9001-2015, ISO 14001-2015, and ISO 45001-2018 standards.
That is why we understand the importance of knowing what the Energy Certificate G is and finding a way to address it. In this article, we will cover everything related to it, along with the consequences this certification has on our energy costs.
How the energy rating is obtained
The assignment of the energy rating must be carried out by a qualified professional. To do so, various factors of the property are examined, as well as which aspects or behaviours lead to poor energy management.
The tests can be carried out by either an engineer or an expert architect. In it, the amount of energy required to meet, under normal conditions of use, the energy needs of a given area will be calculated. Other aspects we will learn from the certification test are CO₂ emissions and energy consumption.
The building owner will be responsible for requesting the report to obtain the Energy Efficiency Certificate. From there, a physical assessment of the building will be carried out, the relevant data will be collected, and then verified using the appropriate verification software in order to draw up improvement measures and the Energy Certificate.
Reasons for receiving a poor energy rating
Your home has received an Energy Certificate G—why might that be? What does it mean? It is normal to have doubts about this, especially since this type of rating is generally viewed very negatively and may raise concerns about whether we should carry out renovations.
Later on, we will discuss what you should do if you want to improve your home’s efficiency, and we will also review what happens once you have received this type of certificate. For now, we will look at the possible reasons why your property has received this rating.
As we have said, in Spain many homes have received an energy rating of G. Fifty years ago, when they were built, the appropriate measures were not taken with energy efficiency in mind, as it was not an issue at the time.
These are the points that may have caused such a rating.
Poor thermal insulation
This is one of the first causes that can be attributed to poor energy efficiency. It is common for older homes not to have good thermal insulation because, due to Spain’s climate conditions, this was not a particularly relevant aspect in home construction.
Inefficient windows
Just as having walls with little thermal insulation, having inefficient, low-quality windows also affects a building’s energy efficiency.
Many of the windows used in construction are not efficient at all, as they leave gaps and cracks through which air can enter the building and contribute to lower temperatures, leading to inefficient heating use.
Large surface area in contact with the outside or uninhabitable spaces
This refers to buildings with a larger exterior surface area, an envelope facing the outside, and numerous façades. As a result, the cold transmitted through these surfaces increases, meaning these homes require more energy resources to compensate for the drop in temperature.
However, this type of home is often combined with a poor heating system, which contributes to worsening the problem.
An inefficient heating system or electric water heater
At Inditer, we are experts in heat exchangers and HVAC, so we understand the importance of having proper heating systems. By not paying attention to this aspect, we may be allowing a large amount of heat to escape and, in addition, increasing CO₂ emissions.
Consequences of receiving an Energy Certificate G
What happens when a building receives an Energy Certificate G? This does not mean mandatory renovation of the home, nor does it mean paying a fine. So far, only having an energy efficiency certificate is mandatory for homes, but it does not have to be of a specific rating. However, it must be presented when selling, buying, renting, or constructing the property.
An Energy Certificate G means that its energy consumption is high, which implies higher costs and an increase in electricity, gas, and water bills. This is something we all want to avoid, so if a building has this rating, it will likely be much harder to sell to the public.
This also implies colder winters and hotter summers due to the home’s poor thermal insulation, among many other inconveniences, such as poor ventilation, which can even lead to dampness or leakage problems.
In other words, the home’s liveability is significantly reduced compared to homes with higher ratings such as C. In fact, homes with an A rating consume up to 90% less than those with a G rating. A major difference in consumption that will also impact our finances.
Although improving a home’s energy efficiency is not mandatory, it is always advisable to look for new solutions to achieve a higher rating and reduce energy consumption, as well as CO₂ emissions.
Benefits of improving energy efficiency
What benefits can greater energy efficiency provide? These are certainly aspects that affect both homes and businesses. Industry increasingly demands sustainability, and it is a commitment on both sides to reduce the negative effects of excessive energy consumption.
Below, we list the main advantages of adopting measures that take the environment into account and help reduce the carbon footprint, both in homes and in companies and businesses.
For businesses
The first direct benefit for businesses is to improve their corporate image and demonstrate their commitment to the environment to an increasingly aware public. This will help attract a larger audience and increase the chances of generating higher revenue, thereby encouraging the company’s growth.
In addition, although an initial investment may be required at first to adapt the industry to the requirements of higher energy certificates, this is a long-term investment. The money invested can be recovered, while also achieving greater profit.
Having a high energy certificate will position you ahead of the competition, while reducing production and energy costs each month. If you want to know how to make your company more efficient, remember that at Inditer we will know how to help you.
For homes
Being able to reduce energy, gas, and water costs is one of the main objectives in household finances. This is the first benefit obtained through efficient management of electricity consumption.
In addition, you will be contributing to a shared cause: caring for the environment and reducing the impact of greenhouse gases. Caring for the environment is an issue that can no longer be postponed, and each individual must contribute as necessary for them.
How to reduce energy costs and improve energy efficiency
So, if we want to achieve a better energy rating for the home, what solutions are within our reach? How can you reduce energy costs? Here are some points that may interest you to achieve it.
As we have seen above, one of the biggest problems for energy efficiency is poor thermal insulation. One of the most accessible solutions is to replace the windows and choose double-glazed ones. These are one of the biggest sources of heat loss and cold air entering homes, so you should not neglect them.
On the other hand, we also recommend that you check the property’s HVAC systems. This includes the boiler or air conditioning. Also check the boiler and how much energy it consumes to heat the water.
At Inditer, we always advocate efficient, environmentally friendly measures. We understand the importance of having good domestic, commercial, industrial, and automotive refrigeration systems. If you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home or business, please do not hesitate to contact us.