Punch commits to 800 Energy Performance Certificates

Punch Taverns is to provide Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) for 800 of its leased pubs in a bid to cut carbon emissions by 17% by 2010.

From 1 October all pubs, which are to be let or sold, have to have an EPC in place - a similar scheme to HIPs in the domestic market.

Pubs will be rated from A-G on energy performance and the cost of an audit and certificate is likely to be between £700-£900. Particular attention will be paid to air conditioning and boiler units. The certificates will last for ten years and include recommendations to upgrade efficiency.

Punch has signed a multi-million pound deal with Connaught Compliance, Royal & Sun Alliance and Charterhouse Energy to provide 800 EPCs for properties in its portfolio.

However, the number does not cover lease assignments where the vendor will have to pay for the EPC but they will be able to take advantage of Punch's terms with its chosen suppliers.

Punch predicts that around 1,600 EPCs will be undertaken in the next year across its estate.

Environmental impact​

"The average pub emits as much carbon dioxide as 16 houses so as an industry we have a big responsibility to the environment," said Punch head of facilities Stephen Allen.

"We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and have established a dedicated carbon team to identify and reduce carbon emissions. This deal means we will have the all-important information we need to identify the energy efficiency of our buildings, and practical guidance on where improvements can be made."

Mark Erskine, national accounts director at Connaught Compliance added: "Punch will have a wealth of information at its fingertips on how it can significantly improve the efficiency of all of its buildings, which will underpin its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint."

The EPC move is part of a wider carbon reduction programme Punch is undertaking throughout its managed estate, which includes installing energy efficient light bulbs, lighting control systems and new boilers.

Punch now plans to roll out its best practice energy initiatives across its 7,500 leased estate.