What is an EPC (and why does it matter)?
An EPC is an Energy Performance Certificate.
Its purpose is to set out how efficient a property is when it comes to energy performance, and how much its heating and hot water will cost each year. An EPC gives a rating from A (cheapest to heat) to G (most expensive to heat).
You can find your property’s EPC on the Government’s website.
The average EPC rating for properties in the UK is D, but many properties have the potential to reach a higher score. The EPC also sets out recommendations for improving the property’s score.
For example, a property with a low carbon heating system and solar panels will score higher than a property with a coal or oil based heating system. The EPC for the second property might recommend the heating system is replaced with a more modern, efficient option.
Why does my EPC matter?
As part of the Government’s commitment to raising the energy efficiency of properties across the country, funding might be available to people who cannot afford to carry out the improvements required to make their property more efficient. This is particularly relevant to properties rated between D and G.
Here at the Environment Centre (tEC), we keep an eye on all the different funding opportunities so we can let you know if you meet the criteria to access financial support for improving your property.
If your home has been particularly cold this winter and you live in Southampton, Hampshire or Portsmouth, we urge you to contact us for tailored advice. Even if you don’t quite meet the required criteria for funding, we’ll still be able to offer you advice on reducing your energy bills and making your home warmer for future winters.
Please call our free phone line on 0800 804 8601 (Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm), or email enquiries@environmentcentre.com.
