Mandatory Energy Review of Heat and Climate Systems: what you need to know in 2025

An energy audit of heating and air conditioning systems is not just a legal obligation, but a key step towards increasing energy efficiency and reducing running costs. The efficient operation of building services systems is essential for both comfort and sustainability. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of the legislative changes that entered into force on 1 January 2022 (Government Decree 666/2020 (28.12.2020) and ITM Decree 19/2021 (14.4.2021)), the purpose of the review, the obligated parties, the deadlines and the process, with a special focus on the important date of 31 December 2025.

 

What is an Energy Review?

An energy audit is an on-site survey carried out by an independent expert to assess the condition, efficiency and sizing of heat generating equipment (e.g. boilers) and air conditioning systems. Its aim is to provide a detailed picture of the energy use of the system, identify shortcomings and make specific, tailored recommendations to improve energy efficiency and optimise maintenance costs.

 

Why is it compulsory?

The review obligation is based on EU energy efficiency directives (such as Directives 2010/31/EU and 2018/844/EU), which aim to reduce energy use in buildings and carbon emissions. The Hungarian legislation (Act LVII of 2015 on Energy Efficiency and related government and ITM decrees) transposes these EU standards into Hungarian practice, ensuring the optimised operation of building services systems.

 

Who is covered by the mandatory review?

Under the legislation in force from 1 January 2022, the mandatory energy audit will cover the following systems:

• Heating systems with an effective rated output exceeding 70 kW or combined space heating and ventilation systems.
• Air-conditioning systems with an effective rated output exceeding 70 kW or combined air-conditioning and ventilation systems.

This obligation applies to all types of property where systems above this capacity are in operation. This includes, for example:

• Enterprises, industrial installations
• Office buildings
• Larger apartment buildings
• Municipal and educational institutions
• Other energy-intensive buildings

Deadlines and Frequency: when is the Review due?

The timing of the energy audit depends on the date of commissioning of the system:

• 2022. systems put into service before 1 January 2011: The first review by 31 December 2025 at the latest must be carried out. This deadline is particularly important for operators of legacy systems.
• 2022. systems put into service after 1 January 2011: The first inspection must be carried out within one year of the date of commissioning.

Frequency:

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

 

When is there an exemption from review?

In certain cases, exemptions from the mandatory review may be granted:

• When operating systems with appropriate controls: if the system is capable of measuring efficiency, indicating maintenance needs and providing optimum search functions.
• Non-residential buildings with a system greater than 290 kW: If an appropriate building management system is in place that logs energy use, measures efficiency and informs the operator of opportunities to improve efficiency.

Importantly, the exemption must be certified by the system operator to the Hungarian Chamber of Engineers.

 

What is the purpose of the Review and what are the benefits?

An energy audit is not just a liability, it is an investment that pays off in the long run. Its main objectives and benefits are:

• Efficiency Measurement and Optimisation: assesses the current state, efficiency and sizing of the heating and cooling system. It aims to optimise performance, thereby reducing energy consumption.
• Cost savings: by addressing identified inefficiencies, operating costs can be significantly reduced.
• Protecting the environment: using energy more efficiently helps to reduce emissions, thereby protecting the environment.
• Failure to comply with the law and avoiding fines: failure to comply with the review may result in serious fines, the amount of which is specified in Government Decree 666/2020 (28.XII.) (up to HUF 600,000).
• Upgrading suggestions: you will receive expert suggestions on how to maintain or modernise your system, reduce heat loss or install new, more efficient equipment. This helps building operators to make informed decisions.
• Promoting Regular Maintenance: draws attention to the importance of regular maintenance, which increases the lifetime and reliability of equipment.
• Recording Obligation: the energy verifier records the data of the systems subject to the review and the data reporting on the review in the Climate Gas Database maintained by the National Climate Protection Authority.

 

The Review Process: how does it work?

The energy audit can only be carried out by a qualified professional. The process typically consists of the following steps:

1. Documentation Review: the energy auditor reviews the documents related to the identification, use, operation and maintenance of the system.
2. Site Inspection: the expert will carry out a site inspection, assessing the heating and air conditioning system, including the heat generating equipment, control systems, circulating pumps and other relevant components.
3. Efficiency test: assesses the energy conversion factors and energy efficiency of the system.
4. Preparation of a report: based on the inspection and analysis, a detailed report is prepared, including an assessment of the state of the system, efficiency recommendations and possible upgrading options.
5. Data provision: the verifier records the report data in the Climate Gas database, thus fulfilling the record keeping obligation.

It is important to document the actions taken on the basis of the reviewer’s recommendations, such as investments in system maintenance, modernisation or heat loss reduction, as these will contribute to the future optimal operation of the system.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Mandatory Review

• How much does the energy audit cost?

Review fees may vary per expert, but the legislation may also set a maximum hourly rate. It is advisable to get quotes from several experts.

• Who can carry out the energy audit?

Only energy experts authorised by the Hungarian Chamber of Engineers may carry out the review. It is important to check the qualification of the expert.

• What happens if I miss the deadline?

If the deadline is not met, the authority may impose a fine of up to several hundred thousand forints. In addition, non-compliance with the legislation may lead to other disadvantages.

• Why act now if the deadline is 31 December 2025?

Although the deadline may seem a long way off, it is worth making an appointment with the inspector as soon as possible. Last-minute availability may be more difficult to find due to market saturation. In addition, an earlier survey can help to plan and carry out any necessary maintenance or upgrading work in good time.

 

An energy audit of heating and air conditioning systems is an essential step towards energy efficiency and sustainability. Don’t just focus on regulatory compliance, but consider it as an investment that will result in significant long-term cost savings and a stable, efficient building services system.

Don’t leave it to the last minute! Get a quote for an energy audit of your heating and air conditioning systems today to avoid fines and optimise your systems!

ENCO Energy