A building's Performance Energy Performance Certificate (PENB) is a key document that provides information on the energy efficiency of a building. Its importance is increasing not only due to legislative requirements but also in view of the growing emphasis on efficiency and sustainability of buildings. Here are the main reasons why every residential building should have an up-to-date PENB:

1. Legislative obligation
PENB is a mandatory document according to Act No. 406/2000 Coll., on energy management. This document must be provided by the building owners or the unit owners' association (UOA). The obligation applies not only to new buildings, but also in cases of sale, lease or major renovation of the building. In addition, from January 2022, stricter requirements apply to new buildings, which must fall at least into energy class B (so-called near-zero energy homes).

2. New legislative changes and their impact
Decree No 274/2023 Coll. came into force on 1 January 2024, which changed the rules on the allocation of heating and hot water costs. The key indicator is the heat transfer coefficient Uem, which can be found in the PENB. This coefficient determines the classification of a building in the relevant category, which directly affects the ratio of the basic and consumption cost components. If the PENB is not documented, the building is automatically classified as extremely uneconomic (category G), which means a less favourable ratio between the basic and the consumption cost component (40:60). A PENB is therefore absolutely necessary for cost allocation.

3. The passport as a cost saving tool
PENB provides an overview of the actual energy requirements of a building. This helps owners and tenants to better understand energy consumption and identify opportunities for improvement. Investing in energy efficiency measures, such as insulation or installing renewable energy sources, can reduce operating costs while increasing the market value of the property.

4. The certificate as a mandatory document
PENB is essential when selling or renting a property. Buyers and tenants have the right to information on the energy efficiency of a building to consider future running costs. In addition, this document is often required when applying for subsidies or bank loans. The PENB must now also be provided to the energy cost allocator for the correct adjustment of the basic and consumption component.

5. Promoting sustainability
With the growing emphasis on environmental and sustainability issues, PENB is becoming increasingly important as a tool to reduce the energy footprint of buildings. Buildings with a lower energy performance are not only more environmentally friendly but also represent more attractive investments.

6. Updating and validity of the licence
The validity of the PENB shall be limited to ten years or until major structural modifications affecting the energy balance of the building are made. In such cases it is necessary to update it to comply with current standards and legislation.

How to achieve better energy performance?
In order for a building to meet more stringent energy performance requirements, several factors need to be addressed. The key measures are:

- High quality insulation of facades, roof and windows,
- Use of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic panels or heat pumps,
- Optimising the orientation of the building in relation to the cardinal points,
- Use of modern technologies such as controlled ventilation with heat recovery.

Cooperation with energy specialists is essential for the design and implementation of these measures, as well as for the correct preparation of the PENB.

Conclusion 

The energy performance certificate is not just an administrative formality, but an important tool for efficient building management and sustainability. Having an up-to-date PENB means not only meeting legal requirements, but also promoting transparency and accountability in energy management. At the same time, it contributes to improving the environment and reducing operating costs, which will be appreciated not only by the owners but also by the tenants of the apartment building.