By 2030, all social housing in England could be subject to a new minimum energy efficiency standard. This public consultation outlines key reforms to improve thermal comfort, reduce fuel poverty and support progress towards net zero.
The UK Government has launched a public consultation to introduce, for the first time, Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) in the Social Rented Sector (SRS), aiming for all social housing in England to reach a minimum energy efficiency equivalent to Energy Performance Certification (EPC) Band C by 2030.
This measure, embedded within the revised Decent Homes Standard, seeks to improve thermal comfort, reduce fuel poverty and support the decarbonisation of the housing stock.
The proposal is based on a reform of the EPC system, incorporating new metrics to assess building fabric performance, heating system efficiency and smart readiness.
It includes a proposed £10,000 per-property spend exemption and transition periods to ease implementation. The consultation also aligns with other key reforms such as Awaab’s Law, the updated DHS, and the expansion of social and affordable housing.
Finally, the document invites evidence on long-term decarbonisation, exploring technologies such as heat pumps, heat networks, solar energy, smart meters and innovative financing mechanisms.
Consultation on Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards in the Social Rented Sector in England.pdf
English (1.11 MB - PDF)
