The long-anticipated consultation on the Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) regime is now open for public comment. This critical consultation, launched by the government, seeks to refine and enhance the framework for assessing and improving the energy performance of buildings across the UK.
Why this consultation matters
The proposed reforms aim to create a robust EPB regime that delivers accurate energy performance data to empower homeowners, tenants, and industry stakeholders. It seeks to support government initiatives on reducing carbon emissions, tackling fuel poverty, and meeting targets under the Warm Homes Plan.
Key areas of reform
The consultation addresses several important areas:
- Energy certificate metrics: Updating what EPCs (Energy Performance Certificates) measure by introducing additional metrics.
- Regulatory requirements: Refining when EPCs and DECs (Display Energy Certificates) are required.
- Quality management: Enhancing protocols to ensure the quality and reliability of energy certificates.
- Data accessibility: Improving how building performance data is managed and accessed.
- Air conditioning inspections: Strengthening the standards for Air Conditioning Inspection Reports (ACIRs).
Objectives of the consultation
The overarching goals include:
- Equipping homeowners and tenants with accurate energy performance information for informed decision-making.
- Supporting eligibility determination for government schemes and monitoring progress on targets.
- Expanding the utility of EPCs to broader stakeholders, including energy efficiency service providers and lenders.
Share your views
CIBSE encourages all members and stakeholders to contribute their insights and expertise to shape this important framework. Comments for inclusion in CIBSE’s response must be submitted by 16 February 2025, ahead of the consultation deadline on 26 February 2025.
To contribute to the CIBSE response please send your comments to [email protected] by the 16th February 2025. You can additionally respond online or email [email protected].
For more details, please visit the consultation page: Reforms to the Energy Performance of Buildings regime - GOV.UK
Let’s work together to drive meaningful improvements in the energy performance of buildings across the UK.