The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has announced significant revisions to its home energy efficiency strategy, marking a series of policy wins for the Country Land and Business Association (CLA) and its landlord members.
In a move that balances environmental goals with economic feasibility, the government has confirmed it will reduce the proposed cost cap for landlords and extend the original timescales for Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) compliance.
These adjustments are central to the newly launched Warm Homes Plan, a broader initiative designed to upgrade the nation’s housing stock, lower household energy bills, and address fuel poverty across the country. By softening the financial and administrative burden on property owners, the government intends to maintain momentum in energy upgrades without destabilizing the private rented sector.
As part of this policy shift, the government is set to formally address the private rented sector Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) consultation. Additionally, officials will publish a partial response to the EPC consultation, providing much-needed clarity on the future of energy regulation. The CLA has welcomed these changes, noting that the revised plan reflects a more realistic approach to the challenges faced by rural and residential landlords in meeting ambitious net-zero targets.
CLA President Gavin Lane is reported saying:
“Rural landlords are committed to improving the energy efficiency of the UK’s housing stock, and we are pleased that a number of CLA proposals have been adopted to help meet this ambition.
“This announcement provides certainty and reassurance, particularly to those who are already making upgrades that they will not be penalised in future for taking early action.
“Adopting a single implementation date of 2030 recognises that the sector needs time to prepare, and we welcome the chance to engage further on the needs of the rural and heritage sector.”