Renewable energy sources have become increasingly important over the years, and solar panels are a great way to harness the sun’s energy to generate electricity. Solar panels are not only beneficial for the environment, but they can also help to reduce energy bills for homeowners.
A house’s energy efficiency (EPC) is a good indicator of its energy bills. Energy efficiency improvements could help to alleviate the burden of rising energy costs.
But do solar panels improve EPC ratings?
What is the EPC Rating?
EPC stands for Energy Performance Certificate. It is a document that provides information on the energy efficiency of a property. EPC ratings range from A to G, with A being the most energy efficient and G being the least.
The key factors affecting EPC ratings are insulation, heating system, ventilation, and lighting. These factors determine the energy required to heat and power the property. The more energy-efficient a property is, the higher the EPC rating.
What is the EPC Rating Used for?
The EPC rating provides information on the energy efficiency of a property. Potential buyers and tenants can use it to make informed decisions about the energy costs associated with a property. Landlords also have to provide an EPC certificate to tenants when renting out a property.
What is the Required EPC Rating for Homes in the UK?
Since 2018, the minimum EPC rating requirement for new tenancies is an E rating. Landlords renting out properties with an EPC rating of F or G can face fines. However, it is worth noting that the government has recently announced plans to raise the minimum EPC rating to a C by 2028.
The Benefits of Improving EPC Ratings
Improving the EPC rating of a property can bring a range of benefits, including:
Reduced Energy Bills
A more energy-efficient property can help to reduce energy bills for homeowners and tenants.
Improved Comfort
A more energy-efficient property can also increase the overall comfort of the property, with fewer draughts and a more consistent temperature.
Increased Property Value
A higher EPC rating can increase the value of a property and make it more attractive to potential buyers or tenants.
Environmental Benefits
A more energy-efficient property can help to reduce carbon emissions, which is better for the environment.
Do Solar Panels Improve EPC Rating?
Solar panels can help to improve the EPC rating of a property. Solar panels generate electricity using the sun’s energy, which can help to reduce energy bills and carbon emissions.
Apart from improving ECP ratings, solar panels have many other benefits for homeowners.
How Much Will Solar Panels Help EPC Levels?
The amount that solar panels can improve the EPC rating will depend on various factors, such as the size of the solar panel system and the orientation and energy efficiency of the property.
The Energy Saving Trust estimates that installing a 4kWp solar panel system can improve the EPC rating of a property by one band. For example, if a property has an EPC rating of D, it could be upgraded to a C with the installation of solar panels. However, it is worth noting that the actual improvement will depend on various factors.
Other Measures to Improve EPC Ratings
In addition to solar panels, there are other measures that homeowners can take to improve the EPC rating of their property. These include:
Insulation
Installing loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, or solid wall insulation can help to improve the EPC rating.
Double-glazed windows
Double-glazed windows can help to reduce heat loss and improve the EPC rating of a property.
LED lights
Replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with LED lights can help to reduce energy consumption and improve the EPC rating of a property.
Energy-efficient boilers
Installing an energy-efficient boiler can help to reduce energy consumption and improve the EPC rating of a property.
How to Get an EPC Rating A
Improving the EPC rating of a property to an A can be challenging, but it is possible. Here are some steps that homeowners can take to achieve an A rating:
Insulate the property
Installing insulation can help to reduce heat loss and improve the EPC rating of a property.
Install solar panels
Solar panels can help to generate electricity and improve the EPC rating of a property. If you would like to know more, follow our tips on buying solar panels the right way.
Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances
Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, such as boilers, can help to reduce energy consumption and improve the EPC rating of a property.
Install double-glazed windows
Double-glazed windows can help to reduce heat loss and improve the EPC rating of a property.
In conclusion, solar panels can increase the EPC rating of a property by reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions. However, other measures such as insulation, double-glazed windows, LED lights, and energy-efficient boilers can also improve a home’s EPC rating.
Homeowners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their property and potentially increase its value should consider taking steps to improve their EPC rating.
