In a recent announcement, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to remove Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) targets and delay various green policies has stirred a range of emotions within the property industry. While some see it as a temporary relief, others express frustration and concerns about the implications of these changes. Let’s delve into the details of this breaking news and the reactions it has triggered.
EPC Target Delays and Policy Shifts
One of the key points of contention is the delay in achieving EPC targets. Landlords were originally informed that they would need to raise their EPC ratings to a minimum of C by 2025, only for the government to extend the deadline to 2028. This shift in the goalposts has left many stakeholders feeling uncertain about the future of energy efficiency in the rental sector.
Additionally, the ban on new oil and gas boilers, along with coal heating off the gas grid, has been pushed from 2026 to 2035. The poorest households will also be exempt from the gas boiler ban, further complicating the timeline for transitioning to greener heating solutions.
Industry Reactions
Jonathan Daines, founder and CEO of lettingaproperty.com, voiced the frustration of many landlords who had already invested in energy efficiency improvements to meet the original EPC deadlines. Some even had to sell their properties due to the financial and practical challenges of making necessary upgrades.
Paresh Raja, chief of specialist lender Market Financial Solutions, added that the uncertainty surrounding energy efficiency policies could hinder stability in the property market. He noted that renters may face higher energy bills due to living in properties with poor energy efficiency.
Ben Beadle, CEO of the National Residential Landlords Association, welcomed the short-term relief for landlords who no longer need immediate property upgrades. However, he stressed the need for a comprehensive plan to support energy efficiency improvements, including financial assistance and tax reforms.
Don McLean, CEO and founder of climate tech firm IES, criticized the decision to drop energy-efficiency targets. He argued that it would obstruct progress in decarbonizing the built environment, with potential negative consequences for tenants’ comfort and energy bills.
The UK’s property industry is experiencing a mix of reactions to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s decision to delay EPC targets and green policies. While some landlords may find temporary relief from financial burdens, concerns about long-term sustainability and tenant well-being persist. As the government navigates these policy shifts, stakeholders in the property sector call for clear direction, financial support, and comprehensive reforms to achieve the shared goal of improved energy efficiency in the rental market. The debate over balancing economic considerations with environmental responsibility remains a critical issue in the years to come.