The government is seeking to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions, in support of the 2030 fuel poverty target and carbon budgets. Amongst otherv things, they are considering an increase in the minimum energy efficiency standard for private rentals in England and Wales to EPC C by 2030. 

Proficiency has submitted a response to the latest consultation entitled “Improving the energy performance of privately rented homes: 2025 update”. You can download a copy HERE.

There appears to be significant movement towards many of the developments Proficiency has been calling for, and increased recognition that there is no one size fits all solution when it comes to energy efficiency improvements. We have long argued for a blended approach that balances carbon, cost and real-world practicality. It seems government is finally listening and taking steps in that direction. 

We also must not lose sight of the fact that there are still known limitations in the EPC software that need to be addressed. Government must invest properly in updating the software to support these positive steps and must put software updating in the hands people who are at the leading edge of software development. EPC data also needs to be made more useful by enabling “what if” modelling of potential improvements and updated pricing illustrations on the register.