The UK government has confirmed plans to lift over 1 million households out of fuel poverty by raising energy efficiency standards for rental properties. Under this proposal, all private and social rental homes must achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or higher by 2030, up from the current EPC rating of E for private rentals, with no existing standard for social housing.

Amid the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, many tenants continue to face cold, inefficient homes that result in high energy bills as well as health problems. The government recognizes the urgency of intervention, as families across the country struggle with unaffordable heating costs and poor living conditions caused by dampness, draughts, and outdated heating systems.

In response, Energy Secretary Claire Coutinho has pledged to tackle these challenges and support tenants with warmer, healthier, and more affordable homes. She emphasised that the government will consult by the end of the year on how best to raise these energy standards for rental properties, setting a clear path toward 2030 goals.

As part of the Warm Homes Plan, the government will also introduce the Warm Homes: Local Grant, offering financial assistance to low-income homeowners and private tenants for energy efficiency upgrades and cleaner heating systems. This complements continued efforts in social housing, with the launch of the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund—replacing the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund—which will support energy upgrades for social housing providers and tenants.

In addition, the Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme will be extended, providing further funding for public buildings to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

From insulation to heat pumps and solar power, the government’s Warm Homes Plan represents a historic opportunity to upgrade the country’s housing stock, transforming homes across the UK into cleaner, greener, and cheaper-to-run spaces. This commitment will not only reduce the impact of energy bills but also contribute to achieving the UK’s climate goals.