Energy Performance Certificate
Homeowners considering Solar Panels must now ensure that their property meets an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of at least 'D' to receive the higher Feed-in Tariff (FIT) rate, which is currently 21p.
For homeowners whose property does not have an EPC rating of at least 'D', there are low-cost ways to upgrade. If upgrading the property is not enough for it to meet the minimum EPC requirement, a FIT rate of 9p will be paid. Combined with electricity bill savings and the export tariff, a FIT rate of 9p will still recover the initial cost well within the 25 year FIT period.
The minimum EPC requirement was implemented for all Solar installations completed from 1st April 2012, as part of the Government's changes to the Solar PV FIT and installation criteria.
How many properties have an EPC rating of 'D'?
The Department of Energy and Climate Change estimate that 50% of properties will currently meet the minimum EPC rating of at least ‘D’.
Systems installed on properties with an EPC rating of at least 'D' will receive the higher Feed-in Tariff rate, currently 21p. This will give a Return on Investment of between 9% and 11% and recover the cost of the system in around 10 years
To receive the higher FIT rate, an Energy Performance Certificate showing your property to have an EPC rating of at least ‘D’ will need to be submitted alongside an MCS certificate from your Solar Panel Installer.
My property has an EPC rating less than 'D'
If your property does not meet the minimum EPC requirement, there are low-cost ways to upgrade with the aim of obtaining an EPC rating of at least 'D' and the higher FIT rate.
If your home is not adequately insulated, you may be able to achieve an EPC 'D' rating by installing Loft and Cavity Wall Insulation. There are Grants currently available for Loft and Cavity Wall Insulation, which are available to all homeowners and private tenants that can cover up to 100% of the cost. Read More about how to claim an Insulation Grant.
Other low-cost upgrade measures to achieve an EPC rating of at least 'D' include low energy light bulbs and thermostatic heating controls.
Installing Solar Panels on a property will contribute towards its EPC rating; however, whether it will help it achieve an EPC rating of at least 'D' should be assessed before installation.
My property cannot achieve an EPC rating of 'D'
If your property cannot achieve an EPC rating of at least 'D', even after upgrading, you will still receive a FIT rate of 9p per kWh of electricity generated.
A FIT rate of 9p per kWh combined with electricity bill savings and the export tariff will still recover the initial cost well within the 25 year FIT period. Depending on the system price, it could still potentially offer an attractive return. In comparison with previously available Solar Panel Grants that covered around 30% of the cost, a FIT rate of 9p offers a far better return.
How can I get Solar Panels?
If you wish to get Solar Panels, EnergyLink can arrange for you to receive up to three free no-obligation and competitive quotes from MCS accredited Installers of Solar systems in your local area. Our Installers can also assist with the EPC. Complete our short form to Get Three Quotes.
