Since October 1st 2008, all public buildings with a floor area greater than 1,000m2 have been required to display a certificate detailing the energy efficiency of the building based upon the actual amount of metered energy used by the building over the previous 12 months.
DECs are required to be renewed each year, with an additional Advisory report created every seven years which outlines potential energy saving recommendations that can be implemented by the building managers.
An insight into the Qualification…
In order to be able to complete DECs, candidates need to complete the ABBE L3 Diploma in Display Energy Certificates (DEC L3). The qualification is comprised of a mix of classroom and distance learning elements, and will ensure that trainees have complied with each of the elements of the National Occupation Standards (NOS) for Display Energy Certificates.
The classroom element of the training course lasts one day, and takes place at our Head Offices in Bath. The one day’s training will focus solely on the legislation behind DECS and the software used for producing them, building on top of the building construction and services knowledge already gained through completion of the NDEA L3 qualification.
Once candidates have completed the classroom training day, there are two assessment criteria that need to be completed:
- Pass an exam based upon the DEC L3 course syllabus.
- Complete a portfolio of 3 DECs on a range of non-domestic properties.
Once candidates have passed the exam and completed the portfolio, they will be awarded the qualification and be ready to practice as an accredited public building energy assessor.
Getting started with the course…
For further information on the qualification please download the official ABBE handbook and the Quidos DEC Level 3 information sheet from the resources tab on the right hand side, alternatively you can speak to a member of the Quidos team by contacting us, training@quidos.co.uk, or call us on 01225 326 895.
