With the Energy Efficiency Standards set to tighten by 2030, commercial tenants are seeking buildings with strong energy performance that cut carbon emissions and help them to reach net-zero targets.
Commercial Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and EPRNC (Energy Performance Ratio for New Construction) are taking centre stage. With regulations becoming stricter and tenants demanding more sustainable and efficient spaces, it is crucial for property owners, investors, and stakeholders to work ahead of 2030 when the Government is expected to insist on a minimum EPC rating of C in line with the UK’s targets for decarbonisation. The higher EPC ratings bring lower utility/operating costs, alignment with corporate sustainability goals and contribute to a happier workforce working in well-designed energy efficient spaces.
It’s something we’re taking very seriously. Sustainability is an integral part of our construction plans at Merchant Park. This comes in many forms. Low/Zero Carbon (LZC) energy options such as air source heat pumps are being undertaken to ensure efficient specifications of LZC technologies with a meaningful reduction of CO2 emissions. We’re also optimising the use of materials in the building, design, construction and maintenance of the buildings and putting in place measures to mitigate extreme weather conditions and the rising impact of climate change. Our BREEAM target of ‘Very Good’ is also on track which supports solutions to reduce carbon emissions to net zero, improve whole life performance, manage health and social impacts, boost resilience, biodiversity and support disclosures and reporting. We’re also encouraging the use of sustainable modes of transport with three active EV car parking points, eleven additional passive EV parking with wiring planned to meet future expansion, and cycle parking.
Construction of Phase One is well underway and running on schedule which means we’re on target to bring the 52,500 sq ft to completion in September 2025.
For further information about the development please contact the letting agents Dave Cato from CBRE dave.cato@cbre.co.uk and Jonathan Simpson at Connect Property jonathan@cpne.co.uk