In order to implement the Energy Certification System (SCE) in January, the Regional Directorate for Energy has promoted during 2009 a training plan for qualified experts and developed an Internet page, presented on Wednesday, in which each expert has exclusive access to carry out the qualification process.
A summary of the energy certificate (CE) as well as of the declaration of regulatory compliance (DCR) issued under the Energy Certification System will be available to the public on the same Internet page. The first phase to implement this process will start in January 2010 for new buildings. The energy certification of the remaining buildings will become mandatory in July whenever a building is bought, sold or rented.
Speaking at the presentation of the Internet page, the Regional Director for Energy said that he hopes that these measures, likewise the expectations throughout the European Union, may increase energy efficiency and the comfort of buildings, which will represent a reduction of the energy bill for the respective owners or tenants.
In addition to including the energy classification of buildings on a scale from A+ (most efficient) to G (least efficient), the energy certificate also includes the energy needs of the building, a set of recommendations if necessary, in order to improve the energy efficiency and classification, and the CO2 emissions of the building, among other elements. The energy certificate also includes in the Azores a warning on gas installations as well as on the dangerousness of carbon monoxide levels.
Furthermore, certification requires an inspection of the safety conditions of the gas installation and the comparison of the reference levels of carbon monoxide with those found in the building.
 José Vieira explained that an existing buildings may have one classification, among various classifications, however with regard to new buildings, only a declaration of regulatory compliance with the project may be issued and consequently the respective building permit for buildings whose expected energy classification, awarded by a qualified expert, is at least B-. Likewise, a using permit cannot be issued for new buildings whose energy classification, after the construction, is below B-.
The page of the SCE may be found at sce.sram.azores.gov.pt. Suggestion or information requests may be sent by telephone or through the following emails: info.sce@açores.gov.pt or [email protected].
The Regional Directorate for Energy will soon sign a protocol with ARENA in order to manage the process of this project with the support of various entities such as qualified experts, municipalities, notary services, real estate agencies and banking systems. The Regional Directorate also expects to count upon the support of all citizens.
The energy certification of buildings is a fundamental tool for the sustainable development. It is an investment for all so that we may increase our well-being and comfort without endangering the forthcoming generations, stressed the regional Director for Energy.