Eurocell have released research showing that one home every minute needs energy-related upgrades in England
This equates to 57 homes every hour upgrading their Home EPC rating.
The research also shows that over 12m homes in England are currently rated at EPC D or lower.
Birmingham, Leeds, and Cornwall have the worst home EPC ratings
In order to hit the UK’s net zero targets, the Eurocell research states that up to 2050, one home per minute will need energy performance-related upgrades. This comes based off energy performance certificate (EPC) data as of December 2024.
New legislation means that all homes in the UK will require an EPC rating of C or higher by 2030.
This data shows an estimated 12,778,637 that will miss the new UK target as they are rated at D or lower.
The EPC C requirement will be legally binding, and is intended to reduce the UK’s net emissions down by 100% by 2050 compared to emission levels in 1990.
An EPC rating of C will usually see homes have adequate insulation, energy efficient heating systems, and double or triple glazed windows. Other aspects may include energy efficient lighting, renewable energy systems such as solar panels, modern appliances, and draught proofing.
The requirement for a home EPC rating of C will also extend to private landlords, including those for social housing. This means at least 4.6m renters and 4m social renters will be affected.
Birmingham ranks worst in Eurocell research
The list of worst offenders in greatest need of EPC upgrades, published by Eurocell, is as follows:
- Birmingham
- Leeds
- Cornwall
- Manchester
- Liverpool
- Sheffield
- Bristol
- Wakefield
- Nottingham
- Kirklees
At the time of the government’s announcement of updating EPC rating requirements, Rob Wall, assistant director at the British Property Federation, said: “We welcome the opportunity to work with Government on the scope, detail, and implementation of the minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) in the domestic sector.
“We fully support the drive to improve energy efficiency across the domestic rented sector, but given we have effectively lost four years, with the target initially suggested in 2020 but not confirmed, it will be challenging for all properties in the private rented sector to achieve EPC C by 2030. We would like to have seen recognition of the time lost reflected through a gentler trajectory, to provide the sector with sufficient time and support to carry out necessary work.
“The sector also needs certainty around the targets, essentially looking for confirmation that this will be the end target, rather than further targets being announced, as this can add to uncertainty and investment decisions.”
The post Research shows over 12m home EPC ratings need improvements appeared first on Planning, Building & Construction Today.
