An energy performance certificate is a key document for assessing the energy performance of buildings and forms a foundation of modern energy policy and sustainable development. But does every building in Poland need such a certificate? In this article, we examine the Polish regulations that determine when a certificate is mandatory and discuss the benefits it provides for businesses.
What is an energy performance certificate?
An energy performance certificate is a document that assesses the energy performance of building complexes and individual buildings, in accordance with the guidelines laid down in the relevant legal regulations, including European Union directives. It is a fundamental element of energy policy aimed at reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
The assessment process used to prepare the certificate includes a detailed analysis of the building’s technical parameters, such as the thermal performance of the building envelope, the efficiency of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, and the use of renewable energy sources. The result of this analysis is an indicator of the annual demand for useful, final and primary energy, expressed in kilowatt-hours per square metre of usable floor area per year (kWh/m²/year).
The certificate not only makes it possible to assess a building’s current energy performance, but also serves as a tool supporting decisions on energy modernisation, contributing to increased energy efficiency and sustainable development in the building sector.
Is an energy performance certificate mandatory in Poland?
In Poland, amendments to the Act on the Energy Performance of Buildings came into force on 28 April 2023. Under the new regulations:
- The obligation to have an energy performance certificate applies to every building or part of a building (e.g. a unit) that is sold or rented out. This means that even if a building is used for the owner’s own purposes, a certificate is required if its sale or rental is planned.
- The certificate must be provided to the buyer or tenant no later than when the agreement is concluded. Failure to provide the certificate may result in financial penalties.
- Exemptions from the obligation to have a certificate are limited and include, among others, buildings used for religious worship, historic buildings and buildings used for no longer than 2 years.
The obligation to present the certificate arises when a building or unit is sold under a sales agreement, when a cooperative ownership right to a unit is sold, and when it is rented out. Buildings occupied by public authorities with a usable floor area above 250 m² and frequently visited by the public must display the energy performance certificate in a visible place. This obligation may also apply to other public-use buildings that meet specific criteria. This information is generally consistent with the regulations, but may require clarification depending on the specific type of building and how it is used.
Why is it worth having an energy performance certificate?
The document provides detailed information on the energy consumption of a company’s buildings, making it possible to identify areas that need improvement and implement appropriate modernisation measures. Improving energy efficiency leads to a significant reduction in operating costs related to heating, cooling, ventilation and lighting, which in the longer term contributes to greater business profitability.
Having an energy performance certificate can be an important element of a company’s sustainability strategy, which is particularly significant in the context of growing regulatory pressure and public expectations regarding environmental protection. Companies with high energy standards may be better able to meet legal requirements and gain a competitive advantage thanks to a positive environmental image.
The certificate is also an indispensable tool in planning building investments and renovations. It provides the data needed to carry out cost-benefit analyses of investments in energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources. This enables a company to allocate its financial resources more effectively, minimising investment risk and maximising return on investment.
