Households across the country are set to benefit from cheaper bills and warmer homes as the government accelerates its Plan for Change
Families have faced rocketing energy bills as a direct consequence of an overreliance on international gas markets, while at the same time thousands of tenants have been left exposed to cold, draughty homes, pushing bills up even higher.
The government is now calling time on this inheritance by consulting on bold new plans, which could save private renters £240 per year on average on their energy bills, with all private landlords in England and Wales mandated to meet higher energy performance ratings in their properties by 2030.
While 48% of private rented homes in England are already Energy Performance Certificate C or above, ministers now want to ensure this good practice is extended to all properties in the sector, making sure landlords are not undercut, while protecting tenants.
As of 2030 all private landlords will be required to meet a higher standard of Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) C or equivalent in their properties – up from the current level of EPC E.
This will deliver on the priorities of working people, in line with the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change, by requiring landlords to invest in measures such as loft insulation, cavity wall insulation or double glazing, ensuring homes are warmer and more affordable for tenants.
Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said:
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:
The government is now seeking views from tenants and landlords on the proposals to boost living standards in the private rented sector and cut the cost of energy bills, which include:
The government is also consulting on a revised fuel poverty strategy, which will focus on improving the energy performance of homes, supporting low-income households with energy affordability and protecting them from high prices.
Today’s steps mark further progress to deliver the government’s Plan for Change, putting more money in people’s pockets and rebuilding Britain.
This follows planned reforms to empower Ofgem, the energy regulator, to become a strong consumer champion, upgrading up to 300,000 homes through the Warm Homes Plan this financial year, and driving a new era of clean energy through the Clean Power Action Plan.
Stakeholder Reaction
Rt Hon Caroline Flint, Chair of the Committee on Fuel Poverty, said:
Adam Scorer, Chief Executive of National Energy Action said:
Charles Wood, Deputy Director at Energy UK, said:
Ben Twomey, Chief Executive at Generation Rent, said:
Madeleine Gabriel, director of sustainable future at Nesta, said:
Stew Horne, Head of policy at Energy Saving Trust, said;
Notes to Editors
The average cost to landlords of complying with the proposals to upgrade their properties is estimated to be between £6,100 and £6,800 by 2030.
See the consultation on increasing minimum energy efficiency standards in the private rented sector.
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