Overview

This bill aims to improve the energy efficiency of domestic properties in England and Wales. It sets targets for minimum energy performance ratings (EPC) and mandates government action to achieve them, focusing particularly on households in fuel poverty.

Description

The bill establishes a two-pronged approach: tackling fuel poverty and improving overall energy efficiency.

Fuel Poverty

The bill defines fuel poverty and sets an objective to ensure all homes occupied by those in fuel poverty have a minimum EPC rating of C by 31 December 2030. Exceptions include cases of refusal to allow work, technical infeasibility, and costs exceeding £20,000. The Secretary of State must publish a strategy, consult relevant groups, and report annually on progress. "Reasonable attempts" to persuade occupants to allow work are defined.

All Households

For all households, the bill aims for a minimum EPC rating of C by 1 January 2035. The Secretary of State must publish a report outlining measures, including fiscal, economic, and regulatory approaches, and a funding plan. Annual progress reports to Parliament are required, along with a review and amendments if needed. Exceptions apply for impractical, cost-ineffective, or unaffordable upgrades, or owner/occupant refusal. The Secretary of State must also make "reasonable attempts" to inform homeowners and tenants about available measures and funding.

Heating Systems

The bill requires that all new heating systems installed in existing domestic properties from 1 January 2021 must have a maximum return flow temperature of 55°C and be "future-proofed" (adequately sized and insulated heat emitters and water storage).

Mortgage Lender Information

The Secretary of State can require mortgage lenders to provide information on the energy performance of properties in their portfolio.

Government Spending

The bill mandates that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State or government departments in implementing the bill, along with any increases in sums payable under other Acts attributable to this bill, will be paid from public funds. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Households in fuel poverty: May benefit from improved energy efficiency and reduced energy bills.
• All homeowners and tenants: Potentially affected by the EPC rating requirements and related costs.
• Energy efficiency industry: Likely to see increased demand for their services.
• Microgeneration industry: May benefit from increased demand for renewable energy technologies.
• Mortgage lenders: May be required to provide data on property energy performance.
• Local authorities: Involved in the strategy implementation and identification of properties in fuel poverty.

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