SCOTLAND could be set to redesign the energy performance certificates (EPC) format in a bid to give consumers a clearer picture of their home’s energy performance and to aid in the country’s drive to cut emissions from homes and buildings.
The Scottish Government is proposing changes including the introduction of a new rating system which will give clearer information on the fabric energy efficiency of a property, the emissions, efficiency and running costs of its heating system, and the cost of energy to run the home.
The EPC format would also be redesigned to make it easier to understand, and the validity of EPCs will be reduced from ten to five years to ensure consumers have more up-to-date information.
Alasdair Allan, acting minister for climate action, said, “Energy performance certificates are a vital source of information for home and building owners and potential purchasers. By improving the EPC we can give everyone a clearer picture of the actual energy efficiency of a home.
“These improvements reflect feedback from external groups including consumer organisations and the climate change committee, as well as from industry, and are in line with changes to EPCs being implemented elsewhere in the UK and in Europe.”
