What is an energy audit and why is change important?

The basic purpose of an energy audit is to check the efficiency and safe operation of heating and air conditioning systems and heating and air conditioning systems. Previously, Government Decree 264/2008 (6.11.2008) stipulated that gas boilers above 100 kW, solid fuel boilers above 20 kW and air conditioning systems above 12 kW effective rated output were subject to mandatory inspections every two or four years.

However, the 2022. Government Decree 666/2020 (28.XII.) and ITM Decree 19/2021 (14.IV.), which entered into force on 1 January 2011 radically changes the current best practice (based on § 43 of Act LVII of 2015). These amendments introduce a more regulated, more stringent system, which aims to provide operators of heating and air-conditioning equipment with a regular and comprehensive picture of the energy efficiency status of their system and the potential energy efficiency improvement opportunities.

What are the main changes from 2022?

A 2022. from 1 January The new rules differ in several important respects:

 

Changed power thresholds

A 2015. Act LVII of 2006 the minimum effective rated power thresholds have been changed:

• For heating systems (or combined space heating and ventilation systems): mandatory inspection above 70 kW effective rated output.
• For air-conditioning systems (or combined air-conditioning and ventilation systems): also mandatory above 70 kW RMS.

 

Frequency of the review

The frequency of the review has also changed:

• In the case of an energy audit obligation: a review is due every four years as part of the audit.
• In other cases: a review is due every eight years.

 

Exemptions from the review

In certain cases, an exemption from the review may be granted:

• If the system is operated with appropriate controls: if the system is capable of measuring efficiency, indicating the need for maintenance and has optimum search control functions.
• For non-residential buildings with a system greater than 290 kW: Where an appropriate building management system is in place to log energy use, measure efficiency, inform the operator of opportunities for efficiency improvements and communicate with the building services systems.

The system operator must provide proof of the exemption, which is verified by the Hungarian Chamber of Engineers and the results of the verification are notified to the authority via the database.

 

Additional requirements and processes of the new system

The new legislation not only affects thresholds and frequency, but also introduces new obligations:

 

Obligation to keep records

The data of the systems subject to the review, such as address, designation, function, type, identifier, effective rated output, are recorded by the energy verifier in the dedicated section of the Climate Gas Database maintained by the National Climate Protection Authority. This record shall form part of the register of the holders of the verification and of the installations themselves. According to the original article, the authors have not yet found such a register on the interface.

 

First test for new systems

For a new system, the first inspection is due within one year of commissioning. This will be carried out by the energy auditor on the basis of an on-site visit and the documentation provided.

 

Condominiums and housing cooperatives

In the case of a condominium or housing association, a decision to order a review must be taken by a general meeting, and the results must also be presented at a general meeting.

 

Controls and fines

The Authority will verify the existence of the reviews with the assistance of the Hungarian Chamber of Engineers. In case of non-compliance or failure to repair, it will impose a fine.

 

New obligations for reviewers

 

The new system also places new obligations on reviewers, such as:

• Obtaining a new entitlement
• Registration
• Participation in annual training
• Payment of the supervision fee

ENCO Energy will make every effort to ensure that they are available to their customers as soon as possible to complete FH/FL reviews under the new system.

 

The energy audit of heating and air conditioning systems has been significantly changed 2022. from 1 January. The new thresholds, more frequent checks and extended record-keeping obligations will result in a stricter but more efficient system. This system will help operators to get a comprehensive picture of the energy efficiency of their equipment and maximise potential energy savings.

Don’t miss out on the latest information and ensure your equipment is in compliance with the law!

Contact us with any questions or request a free quote for an energy audit of your heating and air conditioning systems!

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