Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) provide vital information about a property’s energy efficiency and its environmental impact. A key component of an EPC is the carbon emissions rating, which reflects the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) the property is estimated to produce annually based on energy use.

Understanding how carbon emissions are calculated behind EPC scores can help property owners, buyers, and tenants make informed decisions about energy improvements and sustainability.

What Are Carbon Emissions in EPCs?

Carbon emissions refer to the greenhouse gases, mainly CO₂, released into the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels to generate energy for heating, lighting, hot water, and other uses within a building. EPCs estimate these emissions to indicate a property’s contribution to climate change.

How Are Carbon Emissions Calculated in EPC Assessments?

1. Energy Consumption Estimation

The first step involves estimating the annual energy use for space heating, hot water, lighting, and ventilation based on the building’s characteristics, systems, and occupant assumptions.

2. Fuel Type and Carbon Factors

Different fuels (gas, electricity, oil, biomass) produce varying amounts of CO₂ per unit of energy. EPC calculations apply standard carbon emission factors for each fuel type to convert energy use into equivalent CO₂ emissions.

3. Calculation Methodology

The EPC assessment uses software models (SAP for residential, SBEM for commercial) to combine energy consumption data with carbon factors, resulting in an estimated annual CO₂ output, typically measured in kilograms or tonnes.

EPC Carbon Emissions Rating Explained

  • The EPC displays a carbon emissions rating on a scale from A (lowest emissions) to G (highest emissions), helping compare the environmental impact of different properties.

  • This rating complements the energy efficiency score, focusing specifically on carbon footprint rather than energy cost.

Factors Affecting Carbon Emissions in EPCs

  • Building Fabric: Insulation and airtightness reduce heating demand and emissions.

  • Heating Systems: Efficiency and fuel type (e.g., electric heat pumps vs gas boilers) influence emissions.

  • Renewable Technologies: Solar panels and heat recovery systems lower grid energy use and emissions.

  • Occupant Behaviour: Assumptions in the model may differ from actual energy use, affecting real-world emissions.

Why Carbon Emissions Matter for Property Owners

  • Environmental Responsibility: Reducing emissions helps combat climate change.

  • Regulatory Compliance: EPC ratings inform compliance with building codes and future policies.

  • Financial Benefits: Lower emissions often translate to energy savings and increased property value.

How EPCRate Delivers Accurate Carbon Emissions Assessments

At EPCRate, our EPC assessors in London use up-to-date software and methodologies to provide precise carbon emissions estimates as part of your EPC report. We help you understand your property’s environmental impact and advise on effective improvements.

Discover our EPC services or book an assessment with transparent pricing.

Contact EPCRate for Expert EPC Carbon Emissions Guidance in London

For clear, reliable EPC carbon emissions assessments and sustainability advice, contact EPCRate via our contact page. Make informed decisions to reduce your property’s carbon footprint.