Overview

This bill aims to improve the energy efficiency of domestic properties in England and Wales. It sets targets for minimum energy performance ratings and mandates government action to achieve these targets, focusing on households in fuel poverty and all households by specific dates.

Description

Households in Fuel Poverty

The bill defines fuel poverty and sets an objective to ensure all homes of those in fuel poverty have a minimum energy performance rating of C by December 31, 2030. Exceptions are made for cases where permission is refused, it's technically infeasible, or costs exceed £20,000. The Secretary of State must publish a strategy, consult relevant groups, and report annually on progress.

All Households

The bill requires the Secretary of State to publish a report by twelve months after passage outlining measures to achieve a minimum C rating for all homes by January 1, 2035. This report will include measures, impact assessments and funding plans. The Secretary of State must implement these measures, monitor progress, and make annual reports to Parliament. Exceptions are made for impractical, uneconomical, or unaffordable upgrades or where owners/occupants refuse work.

Heating Systems

The bill mandates that all new heating systems installed in existing properties from January 1, 2021, must have a return flow temperature no higher than 55 degrees Celsius and be "future-proofed" (adequately sized and insulated heat emitters and water storage).

Information from Mortgage Lenders

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

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenditure incurred by the Secretary of State or a government department in implementing the bill, and any increase in sums payable under other acts as a result of this bill, will be paid out of money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided.

Groups Affected

• Households in fuel poverty: Potentially benefit from improved energy efficiency and reduced energy bills.
• All homeowners and tenants: May face pressure to improve their property's energy efficiency to meet the new standards, potentially incurring costs, although funding is mentioned in the bill.
• Energy efficiency industry: Will likely see increased demand for their services.
• Mortgage lenders: May be required to provide data on energy performance of mortgaged properties.
• Local authorities: Involved in implementation and identification of properties needing improvement.

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