About Us
Professional energy assessment services since 2009
Energy Performance Direct was founded in 2009 and is led by Managing Director Zak Henning, a qualified Domestic and Non-Domestic Energy Assessor with extensive experience working across the West Country. Over the years, we've assessed and advised on a wide variety of buildings — from large hotels and commercial premises to small warehouses and family homes — helping clients improve energy performance, meet regulatory requirements, and make informed decisions about their buildings.
Our work covers EPCs, RdSAP and SBEM calculations, SAP compliance advice, renewable energy guidance, and the preparation of floor plans and lease plans. We were also closely involved in the Green Deal, supporting many property owners through energy efficiency upgrades during its operation.
Over time our practice has grown into what we now describe as an independent building energy consultancy. Alongside the regulated EPC and SBEM lodgement work, we produce structured advice reports — DEAR (Domestic) and NDEAR (Non-Domestic) — using a proprietary League Table & Rafts methodology. Every measure is modelled in isolation, ranked across five criteria, then grouped into three costed implementation pathways so clients get an evidence-based roadmap rather than a static recommendation list.
Hands-On Retrofit Experience
More recently, Zak qualified as a Retrofit Assessor and Retrofit Coordinator, developing a detailed understanding of the PAS 2035 route to retrofit. That knowledge isn't just theoretical. A full, whole-house retrofit of his own home — improving it from a D-rated to an A-rated building — provided invaluable hands-on experience.
The project included improved insulation, new windows, solar PV, a heat pump, upgraded plumbing and electrics, careful management of thermal bridges, and mitigation of condensation risk, all delivered within a realistic household budget.
Practical, Achievable Advice
That practical experience shapes how we work. After years of advising clients through EPCs and energy calculations for both commercial and domestic buildings, it reinforces one simple truth: good energy advice has to work in the real world.
Whether the aim is to reduce energy bills, improve an EPC rating, lower carbon emissions, or comply with regulations such as MEES, our focus is on clear, achievable improvements rather than theoretical perfection.
Trusted Partner Network
Energy Performance Direct works closely with a trusted network of partners across the energy and construction sectors. We collaborate with local accredited assessors, retrofit professionals, and installers of solar PV, heat pumps and biomass systems, alongside experienced traditional trades including plumbers, electricians, builders and plasterers. This joined-up approach helps ensure clients receive well-coordinated advice that can actually be delivered.
Our Values
Professional Excellence
Fully accredited assessors delivering high-quality energy assessments to industry standards.
Practical Experience
Real-world retrofit experience ensuring advice that works in practice, not just theory.
West Country Coverage
Serving Exeter, Devon, Cornwall, Somerset and the wider South West since 2009.
Trusted Network
Working with a reliable network of assessors, installers and tradespeople.
Fully Accredited
We are proud to be accredited by leading industry bodies, ensuring our assessments meet the highest standards.
