Energy efficiency is playing an increasingly central role in the building sector. An important document is the energy certificate, which has been required by law for years. But what does it actually mean and why is it indispensable? You can find out here.

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What is an energy certificate?

An energy certificate is an official document that assesses the energy efficiency of a building. It shows how much energy a building requires for heating, hot water and ventilation. It serves as a guide for owners, tenants or buyers. The basis for the energy certificate is the requirements of the Building Energy Act (GEG).

There are two variants: the consumption certificate, which is based on actual energy consumption, and the requirement certificate, which calculates the theoretical energy requirement.

Who needs an energy certificate?

All buildings that are rented out, leased or sold require an energy certificate. Owners, landlords and sellers are required by law to present a valid energy certificate.

For example, an energy certificate is required in the following cases:

• sale of a single-family home or a condominium,
• renting apartments in an apartment building,
• leasing a commercial building,
• new buildings before initial rental or sale,
• Publication of real estate listings, which must include energy indicators.

There are exceptions for listed buildings and buildings with very little floor space, such as garden houses.

What information does the energy certificate contain?

The energy certificate provides a compact assessment of the energy quality of a building. It provides information on key indicators such as energy efficiency classes, primary and final energy demand, and possible measures to improve energy efficiency.

The pass is divided into three parts, which contain different information:

Page 1: General Information

The first page provides basic information about the building:

• Address, year of construction and number of apartments.
• Information on plant technology, such as heating or ventilation.
• Information on the use of renewable energy sources and a possible inspection requirement for air conditioning systems.

It also determines whether it is a consumption-oriented or demand-oriented energy certificate.

Page 2: Energy values and greenhouse gas emissions

The detailed characteristics of the building are listed on the second page:

• Primary energy demand: This shows total energy demand, including losses in generation and distribution.
• Final energy demand: It describes the energy consumption that is used directly in the building, e.g. for heating or hot water.
• Greenhouse gas emissions: These show how much the building is polluting the climate.

This page remains unused when it comes to consumption cards.

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Source: Consumer Center

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Page 3: Energy consumption figures (consumption certificate only)

The third page shows the measured annual energy consumption:

• Consumption values are given in kilowatt hours (kWh) per square meter of living space.
• A tape speedometer shows the energy efficiency class (A+ to H), with higher values meaning poorer energy efficiency.

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Source: Consumer Center

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Page 4: Recommendations for energy-efficient renovation

On the fourth page of the energy certificate, homeowners can find suggestions for improving energy efficiency. These recommendations include measures such as:

• Improving thermal insulation on roofs, walls or windows.
• Replacing old heating systems with energy-efficient systems.
• Use of renewable energy sources, such as solar systems or heat pumps.

If the building has already been extensively renovated, this will be noted accordingly in the energy certificate and no further recommendations will be made.

Important note: The energy certificate does not oblige you to implement the restructuring proposals. Nevertheless, energy-efficient renovation can reduce heating costs and increase property value. Energy advice, e.g. at the consumer center, helps with planning.

Page 5: Explanatory notes and calculation methods

The fifth page provides additional information:

• Explanation of the characteristics and technical terms used in the energy certificate.
• Detailed information on the calculation methods for requirement certificates and consumption certificates.
• Information on legal requirements and the validity of the identity document.

Validity and verification of the energy certificate

Energy certificates are valid for ten years. Since 2014, they have included a registration number, which allows random checks by authorities. It is intended to ensure the quality of ID cards.

Issuers must keep copies for two years. Controls include input data and results. On-site inspections are only possible with the consent of the owners.

How is an energy certificate issued?

The process involves several steps:

• Data recording:
  • Collection of building information, such as year of construction, heating system, windows and insulation.
  • Recording of consumption data (in the case of a consumption certificate) or building details for a calculation (in the case of a requirement certificate).
• Calculation:
  • In the requirement certificate, the energy figures are calculated based on building plans and technical data of the building.
  • The consumption certificate is based on heating bills from the last three years.
• Issuing the identity document:
  • Compilation of all data in a standardized format.
  • Assignment of a registration number at the German Institute of Construction Technology (DIBt).

To create an energy certificate, you need:

• Construction plans, if available.
• Heating bills for the last three years.
• Information about renovations or modernizations.

Why is the energy certificate important?

The energy certificate is a central tool for evaluating the energy efficiency of a building. It offers clear advantages:

• For owners:
  • Meets legal requirements.
  • Highlights the energy standard.
  • Supports the increase in value through targeted restructuring.
• For tenants and buyers:
  • Makes it easy to compare properties.
  • Provides reliable information on energy consumption and costs.
  • Assists in the selection of energy-efficient buildings.

A major advantage is that it is possible to realistically estimate the energy consumption and energy costs of a property. Here is an overview of annual energy costs based on an energy price of 0.10 €/kWh:

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How much does an energy certificate cost?

An energy certificate for a single-family house costs between 50 and 500 euros, depending on the type. A consumption certificate usually costs between 50 and 150 euros. The price of an identity card is between 300 and 500 euros. The costs of the requirement certificate are higher because a comprehensive calculation of the energy requirement is carried out.

Are the costs subsidized?

In some cases, there are funding opportunities for issuing an energy certificate. The consumer advice center, for example, offers energy advice supported by the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA). Owners receive detailed advice, which often includes or builds on the energy certificate.

In addition, funding programs such as the Federal Funding for Efficient Buildings (BEG) can provide indirect support if the energy certificate is part of a funded renovation project.

Who issues an energy certificate?

An energy certificate is issued by qualified experts who have the appropriate authorization to do so. These include architects, engineers, energy consultants and construction and heating industry experts.

It is important that exhibitors meet the GEG requirements. Owners should ensure that the exhibitor has the necessary qualifications. In this way, they ensure a correct and legally compliant exhibition.

Where can I find a certified energy consultant?

Owners can find a certified energy consultant through various sources. Die Consumer Center offers an online search and advice centers that connect local experts. Alternatively, you can contact an energy consultant via the List of energy efficiency experts for federal funding programs. This platform lists qualified specialists who meet the requirements of the GEG. In addition, many chambers of crafts and associations of architects offer lists of approved energy consultants.

What happens if there is no energy certificate?

If there is no energy certificate, there may be legal consequences for owners. When selling, renting or leasing a building, an energy certificate is required by law. Failure to comply with this obligation may result in fines of up to 10,000 euros in accordance with the requirements of the GEG.

Does an energy certificate always have to be presented?

An energy certificate must be presented when selling, renting or leasing. It shows the energy efficiency of a building and makes energy costs transparent. Owners thus increase the attractiveness of their property. Buyers and tenants receive a reliable basis for decision-making. Increasing energy costs and stricter requirements make the energy certificate indispensable. Owners should apply for a valid ID in good time.

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