Accreditation
Every new dwelling in England & Wales and Northern Ireland must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which can only be issued by an accredited assessor using approved software (the requirements are slightly different in Scotland).
There are two routes to becoming an accredited assessor:
- Accreditation of prior learning. This is a non-examination route for candidates who can demonstrate at least two years' experience of carrying out SAP calculations. Applicants have to submit a portfolio of calculations as well as a record of relevant Continuing Professional Development.
- Diploma for On-construction Domestic Energy Assessors. This requires a week's training course leading to submission of a portfolio followed by an examination. It is intended for candidates with little prior experience of SAP calculations.
In order to offer those two accreditation routes to new and existing users of JPA Designer we have partnered with three accreditation organisations, all of which can advise you on the most appropriate accreditation route.
Scotland
In Scotland, there is no specified qualification for energy assessors. The Scottish Government has entered into protocol with professional organisations/institutions whose members already have an understanding of the building/energy sectors. Only members of protocol organisations may produce EPCs for existing buildings. For further information see:
http://www.sbsa.gov.uk/european issues/epcprotocols.htm