Minimum Energy Standards – One Step Closer To Implementation

The Energy Act 2011 places a duty on the Secretary of State for Energy & Climate Change to bring forth regulations to improve the energy efficiency of private rented buildings in both the domestic and non-domestic sectors in England and Wales. The Regulations must be in force by 1 April 2018, and will require all eligible properties to be improved to a Minimum Energy Standard.

The prospect of such a statutory restriction on the trading of property has prompted significant debate across the industry. Indeed, the concept of regulating Minimum Energy Standards for leased premises has arguably captured more attention in the market than any other policy instrument relating to the energy or carbon impact of buildings.