Modular pop-up commercial structures—temporary or semi-permanent buildings used for events, retail kiosks, or exhibitions—are increasingly popular due to their flexibility, speed of deployment, and cost-effectiveness. However, these structures present unique challenges for Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) assessments.

EPCs evaluate a building’s energy efficiency based on insulation, heating/cooling systems, and energy use. Because pop-up structures often use lightweight materials, non-standard construction methods, and modular systems, EPC modelling can be less accurate or more complex.

Key Challenges

1. Lightweight and Non-Traditional Construction

   • Pop-up modules are typically made from lightweight panels, temporary insulation, and flexible frameworks.

   • EPC software (SAP/RdSAP) assumes standard building fabric, making it difficult to assign accurate thermal values.

2. Variable Assembly and Layouts

   • Modular structures can be reconfigured frequently.

   • EPC models assume fixed geometry and consistent materials, so temporary or variable layouts complicate energy calculations.

3. Temporary HVAC and Electrical Systems

   • Pop-up structures often use portable or modular heating, cooling, and lighting systems.

   • EPC calculations expect permanent fixed systems, so temporary solutions may not be correctly represented in the rating.

4. Reduced Data Availability

   • Documentation for modular components and temporary installations may be limited.

   • EPC assessors rely on full specifications to estimate energy efficiency; missing data can lead to conservative or inaccurate ratings.

5. Impact on Energy Use Patterns

   • These structures may have intermittent occupancy or seasonal use, which EPC models typically do not account for.

   • Standard energy assumptions may overestimate or underestimate actual energy consumption.

Practical Implications

• EPCs for pop-up structures may not fully reflect real-world energy performance.

• Temporary or modular buildings may receive conservative EPC ratings due to software limitations and incomplete data.

• Assessors may need to adjust assumptions or use advanced modelling to account for non-standard construction and systems.

Recommendations for Improving EPC Accuracy

1. Provide detailed specifications for modular panels, insulation, and assembly methods.

2. Document all heating, cooling, and lighting systems, even if temporary.

3. Include occupancy patterns and expected seasonal use.

4. Work with an EPC assessor familiar with modular and temporary buildings.

5. Consider professional services like Residential EPC or Same-Day EPC assessments.

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Conclusion

Modular pop-up commercial structures offer flexibility and rapid deployment but pose significant challenges for EPC modelling due to temporary materials, non-standard systems, and variable layouts. Accurate EPC assessments require detailed documentation, expert assessors, and sometimes advanced energy modelling to reflect real-world efficiency.