Aiming to meet the legally binding targets for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2045, the Scottish Government has opened a consultation on proposals to reform both domestic and non-domestic Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
The decision comes after concerns that the current metrics, ratings, and format of EPCs are not suitable to promote improvements in energy usage.
Energy Performance Certificates play a crucial role in providing current and potential occupants with vital information regarding the energy efficiency of their building.
However, the existing standards are now seen as inadequate in driving continual progression towards cleaner energy.
Key proposals within the consultation include reforms to the metrics used in EPC ratings, changes to the validity period of EPCs, and an overhaul of the document format and quality assurance procedures.
The revised Energy Performance of Buildings (Scotland) Regulations are expected to be introduced in Winter 2023-24, with the new EPCs to be implemented shortly thereafter. This timeline aims to align the reformed EPCs with wider Heat in Buildings Regulations planned for 2025.
In addition, the Scottish Government is closely monitoring the UK Government’s timeline for the development of Standard Assessment Procedures (SAP) 11, set for 2025, as it may provide a more suitable point for the introduction of the revised EPC.
The proposed reforms are a topic of interest among property professionals in Scotland, with Propertymark, a leading organisation in the property sector, focusing on compliance and key legislative happenings across the Scottish Government.
The Propertymark’s Scottish National Conference, scheduled for 12th October 2023 at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel in Glasgow, will feature a presentation on the Scottish Government’s plans from a representative of the Heat in Buildings Regulation Unit.
The conference aims to offer insights, networking opportunities, and training to letting agents, sales agents, and commercial agents impacted by the proposed changes.
Propertymark CEO, Nathan Emerson, said: “Propertymark welcomes continual evaluation and improvement across Energy Performance Certificates, and any updated format must drive improvements and bring new levels of user value.”
