Yesterday (11th April) the Green Property Alliance (GPA) wrote to the secretary of state for energy security and net zero, Rt Hon Claire Coutinho MP, calling for the government to publish its plans on future minimum energy efficiency standards for the non-domestic PRS.
The GPA is calling on the government to publish a full response to the 2021 consultation on the implementation of new minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) for the non-domestic private rented sector, with detail on EPC targets and timelines, as well as clarity on the rules around exemptions and enforcement.
This is necessary to provide investors and the sector with certainty over the future regulatory framework.
The GPA said in the letter: “Our members are committed to delivering more energy efficient buildings, driven by investor and occupier requirements which ultimately dictate our sector’s potential to attract and retain capital and occupiers in the UK in a competitive market.
“We, and our members, therefore, support higher minimum standards and investors and building owners have been building the expected EPC B target into their acquisition and refurbishment plans.
“However, the delay in publishing a response to the consultation paper and the ongoing uncertainty about the government’s intentions in this area is causing real concern amongst our members, impacting on investment plans and upgrades of their buildings.
“A full response, providing detail on EPC targets and timelines and clarity on the rules around exemptions and enforcement, would be warmly welcomed by our members and we would be an ally in working with you and officials to help communicate and deliver the new standards.
“We hope that this encourages you to publish a full response in the coming weeks.”
