Energy performance of buildings is high on the Government ’ s agenda. Fifty
per cent of all carbon dioxide emissions come from buildings and with a goal
of reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 60 per cent on 1990 levels by 2050,
the Government has its work cut out. Amongst the raft of legislation, both
national and international, the European Performance of Buildings Directive has
particular signifi cance. The UK is presently working its way towards complete
compliance with the directive as it applies to the energy performance of new and
existing buildings. Energy certifi cation is a reality and with the EUs Action Plan
on Energy Effi ciency set to expand upon the requirements already in place, this
is one bundle of red tape that cannot be ignored

• Energy performance and building regulations