The government has recently unveiled its long-awaited consultation on EPC Reform, titled “Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings Regime.” This consultation outlines significant proposed updates to the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) framework, including changes affecting non-domestic Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), Display Energy Certificates (DECs) for public buildings, and Air Conditioning Inspection Reports (ACIRs). Below is a summary of the proposed changes and their potential implications.
Key Proposed Changes
1. Metrics for Non-Domestic EPCs
While new metrics are being proposed for domestic EPCs, the government plans to maintain the current single headline carbon metric for non-domestic EPCs in the short term. This approach aligns with net-zero objectives and avoids disruptions to existing regulations, such as minimum energy efficiency standards.
Future considerations may explore whether domestic metrics could also apply to non-domestic buildings.
2. Validity Periods for EPCs and DECs
The consultation proposes adjustments to validity periods to ensure data relevance and encourage regular updates:
- Non-Domestic EPCs: Six options are being considered, ranging from less than 2 years to the current 10-year period.
- DECs: For public buildings:
– Buildings (250–1,000m²): Proposed reduction from 10 to 7 years.
– Buildings (>1,000m²): Recommendation report validity may decrease from 7 to 5 years. - ACIRs: No changes proposed—reports remain valid for 5 years.
3. Enhancing Compliance and Enforcement
To improve compliance with EPC requirements, the consultation highlights the need for stronger enforcement and updated penalties.
Increasing penalties for non-compliance to align with inflation and encourage adherence. This is intended as a deterrent for Building Owners to routinely track the performance of their building is in line with the government’s minimum standards.
4. Redesigning ACIRs
The government seeks to make ACIRs more concise and actionable, encouraging system operators to engage with the reports. Proposed improvements include:
- Clear summaries of system efficiency, faults, and recommended actions.
- Maintenance and control settings evaluations.
- System size assessment relative to cooling loads.
5. Expanding EPC Requirements
The consultation suggests expanding EPC requirements, including:
- Introducing a new trigger point requiring an updated EPC when the current one expires.
- Revising regulations to prohibit marketing properties for sale or rent without a valid EPC.
6. Reviewing the Effectiveness of DECs
The government is inviting feedback on how effectively DECs raise awareness of energy use in public buildings and encourage performance improvements. This feedback could shape future policies.
Get Involved
As Sustainability consultants we encourage industry professionals to review the consultation and provide feedback by the deadline, 26th February.
Further Resources
For detailed information, visit the government consultation page.
If your building’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is approaching its renewal date or if you’re considering making improvements to enhance its efficiency, we’d be happy to assist. Please don’t hesitate to contact us by calling 01865 378885 or by filling out the Contact Us form on our website. Our team is here to provide expert guidance and support tailored to your needs.