UK Government Proposes Key Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings Framework

UK Government Proposes Key Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings Framework

The UK government has launched a consultation to reform the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) framework. The proposed changes aim to modernise regulations, enhance energy efficiency, and support national goals such as achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, reducing fuel poverty, and improving building standards.

Running until 26 February 2025, this consultation invites stakeholders to provide feedback on changes to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), Display Energy Certificates (DECs), and Air Conditioning Inspection Reports (ACIRs).

Key Highlights of the Consultation

Modernising EPCs – The consultation outlines updates to EPCs, which are crucial tools for assessing and improving building energy performance.

Reducing the Validity Period of EPCs:

• EPCs are currently valid for 10 years, but the government proposes shortening this to 5 years (or less) to ensure updates reflect building upgrades, evolving policies, and technological advancements.
• A reduced validity period will ensure that prospective buyers and tenants have accurate, up-to-date information to support decision-making on energy efficiency improvements.

Requiring Valid EPCs Throughout Tenancies:

• A proposed trigger point would mandate EPC renewal upon expiry, even if a tenancy is ongoing. This ensures tenants always have up-to-date energy performance data and aligns with Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) policies.

Updated EPC Metrics

To address the limitations of the current Energy Efficiency Rating (EER), the government proposes adopting a multi-metric approach for domestic buildings, including:

• Fabric performance: Evaluating insulation and thermal efficiency.
• Heating system efficiency: Assessing the environmental impact of heating systems.
• Smart readiness: Measuring the integration of energy-saving technologies.
• Energy cost metrics: Providing clearer predictions of energy expenses.

For non-domestic buildings, the carbon metric will remain the primary measure, but additional indicators may be considered.

Strengthening Compliance

To improve adherence to energy performance regulations, the government proposes the following:

Increased Penalties – Penalties for non-compliance will rise to reflect inflation, with fines for domestic EPCs increasing from £200 to £325–£400, and for non-domestic EPCs adjusted to £815–£10,000, depending on building size.

Expanded Scope – EPC requirements will extend to short-term rental properties and heritage buildings, ensuring consistent standards across all property types.

Data Accuracy and Quality Assurance

Efforts to improve data reliability and assessment quality include:

• Enhanced training and accreditation for energy assessors.
• Allowing re-use of validated data from previous EPC assessments for minor property upgrades.
• Removing outdated or cancelled EPCs from the register after two years to streamline data management.

Air Conditioning Compliance

Proposals aim to improve compliance with ACIR requirements by:

• Increasing penalties for non-compliance from £300 to £800.
• Simplifying and redesigning ACIRs to make recommendations clearer and more actionable for building operators.

What These Changes Mean for Stakeholders

For Homeowners and Tenants

• More frequent, reliable EPC updates for informed decision-making.
• Clearer insights into energy savings and improvement opportunities.

For Landlords and Businesses

• Enhanced tools for compliance management and portfolio improvement.
• Stronger alignment with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals.

For Policymakers

• Improved data for monitoring energy performance across the UK building stock.
• Stronger alignment with decarbonisation and energy efficiency objectives.

Have Your Say

The government encourages all stakeholders—homeowners, tenants, landlords, energy assessors, and businesses—to share their views via the online survey. Your feedback will help shape a future-proof EPB framework.

Take this opportunity to influence the future of building energy performance in the UK. Together, we can build a sustainable, low-carbon future.