In desert regions, Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments face a unique environmental factor — airborne dust. While most EPC models assume consistent solar exposure based on climate data, high dust concentrations can significantly reduce solar gain, affecting both heating and cooling projections.
How Dust Influences Solar Gain
Airborne dust can:
Scatter and absorb sunlight, reducing the amount of solar energy entering through windows.
Settle on photovoltaic panels, lowering renewable energy output.
Create a microclimate effect by altering local air temperature and radiation balance.
Traditional EPC software often does not factor in temporary or seasonal dust events, leading to potential overestimation of solar contribution.
EPC Modelling Challenges
Reduced Passive Heating – EPC models may predict more winter solar heating than is actually achieved due to dust haze.
Altered Cooling Loads – While dust reduces solar gain, it may also cause EPC calculations to underestimate cooling needs when dust storms coincide with high humidity.
PV Output Variability – Renewable energy credits within EPCs might be inflated if panel soiling isn’t considered.
Our About Us page explains how our assessors adapt methods to account for environmental anomalies like this.
Residential EPC in Desert-Influenced Areas
Even if your property is in the UK, microclimate effects such as industrial dust or coastal haze can mimic desert dust conditions. Our Residential EPC service ensures accurate modelling for unique local conditions.
Same-Day EPC for Special Cases
If you have a property where dust, shading, or atmospheric conditions may affect solar calculations, our Same Day Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) service provides quick yet precise results.
Transparent Pricing
Specialist adjustments for environmental factors don’t have to mean hidden costs. View our Pricing Plan for clear fee structures.
Speak to Our Experts
If airborne dust or other unique site conditions could affect your EPC, get tailored advice through our Contact Us page.
