The deputies supported the introduction of energy labels on buildings

A fine of up to 50,000 crowns is threatened for owners due to the missing energy label.

Prague - The Chamber of Deputies today supported the government’s bill in the first reading, which among other things introduces the obligation to label buildings with energy labels, similar to what is currently done with electrical appliances. The labels, known as energy performance certificates, are intended to serve as an informational tool for buyers or tenants, who can use them to determine energy operating costs. The new rule is also expected to lead to lower energy consumption and reduced energy expenses. The proposal is based on a European directive and also introduces mandatory heat meters in apartments with central heating.
     Energy labels will need to be ensured by builders, building owners, or owners' associations for new buildings or when they are renovated, and also during the rental or sale of individual apartments.
     The implementation of labels on already existing buildings will be gradual. Depending on the size of the buildings, the labeling will occur from 2015 to 2019. Administrative buildings and apartment buildings with a so-called energy-related area greater than 1500 square meters will be prioritized. Two years later, this obligation will apply to buildings over 1000 square meters, and from 2019 to buildings up to 1000 square meters as specified by law.
     However, the requirements for reducing the energy intensity of buildings will not apply, for example, to churches, small buildings, cultural monuments, or industrial facilities. Vacation properties will also be exempt.
     The amendment also brings other duties, such as the mandatory installation of heat meters in apartments with central heating starting January 1, 2014. If a flat owner does not allow the installation of this meter or its monitoring and maintenance, they may face a fine of up to 50,000 crowns. As Pavel Jirásek from the electrical energy department of the Ministry of Industry stated, the costs of installing the meters should be borne by the apartment owner or the owners' association, as it concerns the apartment's equipment. "The price of one indicator (evaporation system) is roughly around 250 CZK, electronic indicators are approximately two to three times more expensive," stated Tomáš Paták from the press department of the ministry to ČTK.
     The amendment to the law also includes penalties if, for example, the owner of an apartment does not provide the buyer with a copy of the energy certificate before the sale. In such cases, a fine of up to fifty thousand crowns may be imposed.
     Experts expect that labeling may cause problems for owners who do not have all the construction documentation for their properties. They also warn that property owners will likely pass on the costs of energy labeling into rents or sale prices.
     Today, the reporter on the amendment and head of the economic committee, Milan Urban (ČSSD), expressed his reservations about the proposal. He noted that the MPs have no choice but to implement the directive into Czech law. "And if I were to diplomatically tell you what I think of that standard, I would say it is redundant and a bit foolish," he declared from the podium.