Stormont Finance Minister Sammy Wilson has stressed the current economic significance of energy performance certificates.

Speaking one year on from the introduction of the legislation attached to properties for sale or rent on the open market, Mr Wilson said: "These certificates depict an energy rating for the building – similar to the colour coded ratings on electrical appliances – and come with a recommendation report showing how you can improve the building’s energy performance and save money in the longer term.

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"This makes good economic sense particularly when fuel prices remain high and with the current economic environment.”

He continued: "When you are buying or renting a property, these certificates will give you valuable information about the energy efficiency and therefore potential running costs of that property.

"You will be able to make a more informed choice. Sellers and landlords may also be encouraged to make their properties more attractive to make the best of the current market. To date over 35,000 EPCs have been generated."

The Minister said the Public Sector has been playing its part too, by arranging for the display of these certificates in relevant larger buildings.

"The Department will ensure that the public sector complies fully and in the forthcoming months will also focus on non-domestic properties to ensure they too are fully compliant," he added.

(PR/KMcA)