The X-tendo survey shows that building logbooks, financing options and comfort are the most relevant features for new energy performance certificates, according to end-users from five countries

15/10/2020

Understanding end-user perspectives is crucial for the development and roll-out of new features for energy performance certificates (EPCs). Without a full insight into what end- users want and need for the next generation of EPCs it will be difficult to make effective use of these new features. X-tendo has conducted a survey with (potential future) building owners and occupants in Denmark, Greece, Poland, Portugal and Romania on their needs, expectations, and views on the innovative features of next-generation EPCs.  

The survey delivered a rich set of information and many different results for each feature. These were grouped in five categories: (i) demographics (age, education, employment, family status), (ii) tenure status/building type (single family home, multi-family home, tenant, owner), (iii) location, (iv) EPC and renovation status, and (v) financial situation/energy consciousness.

There are variations in responses based on age, employment, tenure, financial situation and others, and that interest in specific features varies between end-user categories. For example, younger people are more interested in smart technologies and good indoor air quality (especially families with children), while older age groups were more interested in comfort, real energy consumption, building documentation and renovation information in general. The differences between owners’ and tenants’ responses were not that large and the area people live in seemed to make little difference to their perception of the various features. When looking at the financial situation instead, it is clear that those who are struggling financially are more interested in features that help them save money.

As for the features of EPCs, building logbooks, financing options and comfort are the most relevant features, followed by tailored recommendations and one stop shops.

Most end-users are familiar with smart-technology and believe that it can improve comfort and save energy in their homes, but there are concerns around the privacy and security of the shared data. The outdoor air pollution was rated moderately interesting as it may not hold high priority for other countries that do not have severe air pollution problems. The same moderate interest was for district energy, suitable for countries where district energy networks have flourished and are accessible to end-users.

Find all the insights in the report here.

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