Tamlite Lighting Welcomes IPF’s Research on Energy Efficiency in Commercial Properties
Tamlite Lighting, a leading UK independent lighting manufacturer, has expressed strong support for the Investment Property Forum (IPF)’s latest report on energy efficiency improvements in existing commercial properties. The comprehensive 81-page study highlights the critical role of lighting upgrades in enhancing energy efficiency and meeting regulatory standards.
Key Findings of the IPF Report
The IPF’s report underscores that lighting upgrades should be a fundamental part of any energy efficiency improvement strategy for commercial buildings. The research evaluates various improvement packages for their impact on Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings, energy use, carbon emissions, and associated costs, considering the updated EPC modeling methodology introduced in June 2022. This update could potentially result in lower EPC ratings for some buildings.
Increasing Regulatory Demands
The Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES) regulations are tightening, with commercial property landlords required to achieve a minimum EPC rating of C by 2028, and a B rating by 2030. To meet these new standards, improvement measures are essential.
Cost and Efficiency of Lighting Upgrades
Historically, upgrading from T5 to LED lighting could cost-effectively achieve an EPC rating of C. However, for an EPC rating of B, additional measures such as installing LED lighting and an air source heat pump (ASHP) are typically required. The IPF report indicates that achieving an EPC B rating may necessitate an investment ranging from £200/m² to £800/m², covering lighting, heat pumps, and ventilation improvements.
The report also found that only planned refurbishment scenarios, including lighting and ventilation upgrades, pay back within seven years under current conditions.
Commentary from Tamlite Lighting
Richard Wharrad, Group Manager & Head of Sustainability and Social Value at Tamlite Lighting, stated:
“As a lighting manufacturer dedicated to sustainability, we are pleased with the IPF’s acknowledgment of modern LED lighting systems’ role in creating more energy-efficient buildings and their substantial return on investment. Commercial property landlords face significant challenges in transitioning to net-zero carbon, and lighting upgrades offer a cost-effective solution for improving EPC ratings.”
Detailed Findings and Methodology
The IPF report, developed by Currie & Brown with support from Introba, builds on their 2009 edition and incorporates updated EPC methodologies. It examines a range of building typologies, including build-to-rent and student accommodation, and introduces a new Excel tool for users to apply findings to specific cases.
Summary of Key Findings:
Lighting and Ventilation: The only improvement packages that pay back within seven years are part of a planned refurbishment scenario, focusing on lighting and ventilation upgrades.
Combination Packages: To achieve an EPC B rating, a combination of lighting, ventilation, and heat pumps is often required.
Heating Upgrades: Switching to direct electric or heat pumps can significantly enhance EPC ratings, especially as the UK grid becomes more decarbonised.
Future Challenges: By 2030, some buildings may struggle to achieve an EPC B rating without electrifying heat, due to the decreasing carbon emissions factor for electricity.
Conclusion
Richard Wharrad added: “The IPF’s research is a vital resource for commercial property asset managers aiming to balance the demands of property performance improvement with regulatory compliance and investment return.”
For further details on the IPF report and its implications for commercial property, visit the IPF’s website or contact Tamlite Lighting for insights on effective lighting solutions.