Investigating the relationship between energy assessor training and assessment methodology in standardised energy assessments in Europe

The relationship between assessor and assessment is symbiotic; training and support of assessors must reflect the designed assessment process, but new assessment processes can only be designed within the confines of the known skillsets (or projected future skillsets) of that assessor population. This paper reviews Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) methodologies in a number of target European countries and discusses the role of building simulation in each one. Furthermore, by reflecting on the different training and education background of energy assessors, the difficulties in introducing more comprehensive forms of building modelling into these methodologies are described. This questions the use of new EPC metrics and performance indicators (such as the proposed Smart Readiness Indicator and Operational Energy Ratings) within some countries, whilst also limiting new forms of building simulation being integrated into existing building energy compliance methodologies. The conclusions note recommendations that are generalisable across European countries, as well as those that will only be suitable for certain countries, or clusters of countries.