Adrian Sanders MP has called on the Government to change its policy on Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), which he claims is hurting businesses and stifling investment.
All buildings must have an EPC before they can be sold or let. EPCs must be assessed by a certified professional and the Government has not put a limit on the price commercial assessors can charge. Constituents in Torbay have reported being given quotes of over £1500 for their businesses.
The Government offers no financial help for struggling businesses that want to sell up to cover the costs of the EPC, adding a significant burden. Adrian is pressing the Government to offer leeway on this issue, to ensure businesses that need to sell or rent premises can do so without any penalty, which in the current economic climate would be prohibitive.
Adrian said: “Energy Performance Certificates are generally positive in that they encourage better energy efficiency and provide good information for buyers and tenants. The way the Government has introduced the scheme unfortunately does not match the aims; they have not thought through the effect on businesses.”
“The EPC is also based on something of a simple computer program and in many cases, particularly in old buildings, will not reflect the true environmental impact. With the downturn, the Government needs to think more carefully about this scheme; with property sales plummeting, EPCs can often just add another disincentive.”
In response to Adrian’s concerns, Housing Minister Margaret Beckett said: “Climate Change is real and happening. Nearly half of all carbon dioxide emissions in this country come from buildings. EPCs mean that for the first time those buying a property will know how energy efficient those buildings are, and how to make them perform better. Consumers can save money on their energy bills, and we all gain if carbon dioxide emissions are cut. So, the policy is normally a win for everyone.”
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