What is 'Part L'?
Part L of the Building Regulations imposes the requirement on building work that:
"Reasonable provision shall be made for the conservation of fuel and power in buildings by:
- limiting heat gains and losses:
- through thermal elements and other parts of the building fabric; and
- from pipes, ducts and vessels used for space heating, space cooling and hot water services;
- providing and commissioning energy efficient fixed building services with effective controls; and
- providing to the owner sufficient information about the building, the fixed building services and their maintenance requirements so that the building can be operated in such a manner as to use no more fuel and power than is reasonable in the circumstances."
Why has Part L been introduced?
Part L has been introduced in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of the government’s strategy to address global warming.
Does it apply to me?
If your firm installs lighting systems or electric heating systems or the associated electrical controls in offices or factories in England and Wales, Part L will apply to you.
What should Electrical Contractors do?
Electrical contractors that want to self-certify that their work complies with the Building Regulations should consider becoming a 'Competent Person'.
What is a 'Competent Person'?
A Competent Person is a firm that has been independently assessed and certificated by an approved Competent Person Scheme as competent to self-certify that its work complies with the Building Regulations.
What are the benefits of becoming a Competent Person?
Competent Persons save on the time, trouble and costs associated with the submitting of building notices to, and having their work inspected by, Building Control.
What are the requirements of the ECA's Electrical Energy Efficiency Scheme?
To become registered as a Competent Person under the ECA’s Electrical Energy Efficiency Scheme, a firm must be able to demonstrate both its technical competence and its ability to work in compliance with Part L. To demonstrate technical competence the firm must have a satisfactory assessment against the requirements of the Electrotechnical Assessment Scheme (EAS), or an equivalent. To demonstrate compliance with Part L, the firm must employ at least one individual who is qualified to work as that firm’s Energy Supervisor.
What is an Energy Supervisor?
A firm seeking Competent Person status is required to have at least one individual - an Energy Supervisor - who will be responsible for:
- Ensuring that the electrical requirements for energy conservation are complied with
- Providing sufficient information to enable the building operator to minimise fuel and power consumption
Click here for full information
How can my firm become a Competent Person?
You may apply online by clicking the button below 
Alternatively click here for the downloadable information pack.