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Glossary termPublished inEPBD IV

Effective rated output

What does "Effective rated output" mean under EPBD IV?

The maximum calorific output, expressed in kW, specified and guaranteed by the manufacturer as being deliverable during continuous operation while complying with the useful efficiency indicated by the manufacturer

Defined in / by

Last updated: 14 October 2026.

The kW figure behind the thresholds

Effective rated output is the number that decides whether a non-residential building needs building automation. It is the maximum calorific output in kW that the manufacturer specifies and guarantees for continuous operation at its stated useful efficiency. It is read from the product, not measured in the building.

Article 13(9) uses it to set the duty: non-residential buildings with an effective rated output for heating systems, air-conditioning systems, combined space heating and ventilation, or combined air conditioning and ventilation of over 290 kW by 31 December 2024, and of over 70 kW by 31 December 2029, must be equipped with building automation and control systems where technically and economically feasible. Article 13(12) uses the same thresholds for automatic lighting controls, by 31 December 2027 and 31 December 2029. Article 15 uses it to define the non-residential buildings to which the Commission is to apply the smart readiness rating, and Article 23 uses it for inspections.

In the Netherlands RVO states the GACS duty as heating and/or cooling capacity of more than 290 kW, from 1 January 2026, falling to 70 kW from 1 January 2030 under Staatsblad 2026, 103.

Questions and answers

Where do I find the effective rated output of a heating system?

In the manufacturer's specifications. EPBD IV defines it as the maximum calorific output in kW that the manufacturer specifies and guarantees for continuous operation.

Which thresholds use effective rated output?

The building automation duty in Article 13(9), above 290 kW and then 70 kW, the lighting control duty in Article 13(12), the smart readiness rules in Article 15 and the inspection rules in Article 23.

Regulations

  • Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD IV)

    EPBD IV is Directive (EU) 2024/1275, the recast Energy Performance of Buildings Directive. The Netherlands put its first tranche into force on 29 May 2026 (Stb. 2026, 103), with duties staged to 2033: recharging points in existing car parks from 1 January 2027, solar and lighting control from 1 January 2028. Energy label D by 2030 is still a proposal.

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