MEES timeline
2018: minimum EPC E for new lettings. 2023: minimum EPC E for all continuing lettings. The proposed 2027 EPC C interim milestone was DROPPED in the government's June 2026 interim response, and the old "EPC B by 2030" figure was never law. The current position: EPC E remains the floor to let, with EPC B proposed for around 2031 for larger let buildings (over 1,000 sqm expected) and not yet enacted. Plan against the direction of travel, not against a withdrawn date.
Why solar PV is dominant intervention
For 200,000 sqft warehouse: solar 1 MW = 4.2yr payback + 8-14 EPC points (D to B). LED upgrade = 2.3yr payback + 2-4 points. Roof insulation = 8yr payback + 3-5 points. Solar wins on absolute EPC uplift and combined energy cost saving.
Portfolio rollout strategy
For institutional landlords with 50-500 properties: portfolio MEES gap analysis identifying which buildings are below EPC B; standardised lease addenda template; pre-vetted installer panel; single insurer review process; consolidated EPC monitoring. Sequencing prioritised by lease event timing.
EPC reassessment
After PV commissioning, EPC reassessment by qualified non-domestic energy assessor. New EPC valid 10 years. Cost £400-£1,200. Some councils offer subsidised reassessment as part of business decarbonisation programmes.
Common questions
When is the EPC B deadline?
There is no EPC B deadline in law yet. The June 2026 government position proposes EPC B by 2031 for let commercial buildings over 1,000 m², dropped the earlier EPC C 2027 interim, and confirmed "EPC B by 2030" was never law. The enforceable minimum today is EPC E — but most institutional landlords are planning to EPC B anyway, sequenced around lease events.
What if our warehouse already has EPC C?
EPC C buildings need to reach B by 2030. Required uplift typically 1-4 EPC points. Achievable with moderate solar PV install (300-800 kW) often combined with LED lighting upgrade.