Source · Select Committees · Energy Security and Net Zero Committee
Recommendation 8
8
Accepted
Energy Performance Certificates deter consumers from low carbon heating due to cost-based bias.
Conclusion
We are deeply concerned that Energy Performance Certificates, as currently calibrated, provide some consumers with poorly conceived advice and have a strong bias against low carbon, but initially more expensive, heating systems. As a cost-based metric, Energy Performance Certificates are not, as they stand, an effective tool for decarbonising UK homes. To the contrary, they are deterring consumers from making the switch to low carbon heating. (Conclusion, Paragraph 62)
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledges the concerns regarding Energy Performance Certificates and is reforming them to better align with net zero objectives, with updated EPC metrics expected to be introduced in 2026 under the Home Energy Model after a consultation.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The government is reforming Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) to better align them with our key policy objectives, including achieving Clean Power by 2030 and accelerating progress towards Net Zero. The consultation on EPC Reform, developed jointly by Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, outlined proposed reforms that will support the effective delivery of the Warm Homes Plan, aiming to reduce household bills and tackle fuel poverty. The consultation set out proposals for updated EPC metrics to more fully reflect a building’s energy performance and show clear information on emissions and cost. The Government expects that changes to the EPC metrics will be introduced in 2026 and new and amended metrics will be introduced for domestic buildings under the Home Energy Model (HEM). The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government are currently analysing responses to the consultation and will publish the Government Response in due course.