Why do we need EPCs?

Domestic housing accounts for almost 40% of the UK’s energy consumption and the attendant CO2 emissions. Energy Performance Certificates were introduced in the UK as part of the Housing Act 2004 in order to raise householders’ awareness of the energy efficiency of their properties and provide guidance on the steps that could be taken to improve a property’s efficiency, thus lessening the environmental impact of heating and lighting the property and, at the same time, saving the householder money.

Under the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EU Directive 2002/91/EC) all member states of the EU have to have to take measures to monitor and stimulate improvement in the energy efficiency of the housing stock. The issuing of Energy Performance Certificates for all domestic properties fulfils the part of the government’s obligations under this directive.