From 6 April 2008 energy certificates were compulsory for all large buildings sold or rented in the UK. Public buildings and smaller private buildings will also be required to display certificates by 1 October 2008.

This is a major plank in the government's drive to reduce carbon emissions from buildings. The certificates will send a clear message to prospective purchasers and leaseholders about how efficient their buildings are. The certificates will provide information about gas and electricity costs, annual energy demand, how well the buildings have been managed for energy use, and how much CO2 they generate. Critically, the certificates will offer recommendations for how to reduce energy use and CO2.

At last, there will be an incentive for building owners who do not pay for their tenants' energy use to address energy efficiency. In theory, buildings with good energy performance will attract a premium, while inefficient buildings will be penalised in the marketplace.

CAR has carried out energy analysis and certification work in the UK and overseas. If you are responsible for managing or designing non-domestic buildings we can produce the energy certificates you need.

[Contact: Jason Palmer]

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