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The poll, which gathered responses from law firms across 18 European countries, suggested that improving energy efficiency remains a low priority for most European businesses.

According to LG, only respondents in the UK and Switzerland noted a relatively high level of interest in or awareness of the energy efficiency of buildings.

Partner at LG, Catherine Diggle, said: 鈥淢any countries are still lagging behind with their implementation of it, and there have been more than 20 infringement cases.

鈥淥ur findings suggest a strong need for all governments to adopt a more incentive-driven approach to promoting energy efficiency in the commercial sector鈥�Energy Performance Certificates amount to little more than the label on the tin - they don't in themselves reduce the carbon footprint of European businesses. Unless firms feel this in the pocket it seems unlikely that further regulation will bring about a significant change, particularly in a worsening economic climate when green issues are falling down the list of priorities for many businesses鈥�

Energy Performance Certificates amount to little more than the label on the tin...Unless firms feel this in the pocket it seems unlikely that further regulation will bring about a significant change.

Catherine Diggle, Partner, LG

EPC Energy Assessor Judy Ong said: 鈥淚 think energy efficiency is actually going up the business agenda. A lot of companies have enjoyed low fuel prices. They鈥檝e had great deals from the energy providers and that鈥檚 come to an end this year, and in general a lot of the big companies are very aware of their corporate responsibilities.

鈥淲hile at the moment there are no incentives to take on board the recommendations, EPCs do raise awareness. There鈥檚 not going to be any significant change in carbon emissions for the next five years, I would say. But this is just the first stage - this is just the measuring stage. I would imagine that the next stage will set targets, like a minimum rating. Then you鈥檒l start to see real carbon reductions.鈥�

From 1 October, all commercial buildings marketed for sale or letting in the UK will need an EPC. The UK Government has introduced transitory measures that mean owners of commercial properties have until 4 January to obtain their EPC, or until the property is sold or rented, in which case an EPC will be part of the transaction.