Landlords will be required to ensure their properties achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of band C by 2030, according to Energy Minister Fahnbulleh.
During a parliamentary session, Green MP Ellie Chowns questioned the minister on this policy. Fahnbulleh responded:
“This government is committed to reducing fuel poverty in England. We will require landlords to improve their properties to EPC standard C by 2030. This will create warmer, healthier homes and lift many families out of fuel poverty while reducing energy bills.”
Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Milliband, supported the move, emphasising the need to address fuel poverty, which affects over three million people in the UK:
“This government will demand landlords raise their properties to EPC band C by 2030. This measure aims to significantly reduce the 3.2 million households currently in fuel poverty over the next five years.”
The Conservative Party had previously abandoned similar plans, citing high costs for landlords, particularly for those with older Victorian properties. Labour is now considering implementing the requirement without the original £10,000 price cap. Senior Conservative MP Bob Blackman expressed concerns, stating:
“Many rental properties are simply not capable of being upgraded to that standard.”
