The Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) Framework was introduced in phases from 2007, to support carbon reduction in buildings and to encourage the adoption of energy efficiency measures.
Since then, there has been a significant change in landscape on net zero and energy policy and, as recommended by the Climate Change Committee and other key stakeholders, the framework is in need of reform.
A consultation is now underway with the aim to reform to the EPB regulations in England and Wales and bring changes to the way Display Energy Certificates (DECs) are managed and utilised.
Under this consultation, DECs may change in a number of ways.
Validity period of Display Energy Certificates (DECs)
DECs show the actual operational energy performance of a building based on metered energy consumption data over the preceding years. The proposal is to reduce the validity periods for DECs and their Recommendation Reports.
Proposed validity period changes
| Building size | DEC | Recommendation Report |
| Between 250 – 1,000m2 | 10 years to 7 years | 10 years to 7 years |
| Over 1,000m2 | No change | 7 years to 5 years |
A shorter DEC validity period for smaller buildings would ensure the information is more current and reflective of the building’s recent energy use patterns and could provide more accurate data to building owners and occupants. More up to date Recommendation Reports will also better support energy management decisions.
Increased fines for non-compliance
Since the introduction of the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) Framework, the penalty charge for non-compliance has not changed. The Government is concerned that the current penalties are insufficient to provide an effective deterrent to non-compliance.
Under the consultation the consideration is that the current fine of £1,000 will either be increased in line with inflation (£1,630 based on the Bank of England inflation calculator as at April 2024) or doubled to £2,000.
Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) consultation
This consultation also affects how Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and TM44 Air Conditioning Inspections are managed. To support the Government’s commitment to net zero, this consultation sets out to make critical changes to the way we measure and monitor the building energy data needed to make informed decisions when creating more energy efficient and sustainable buildings.