As homeowners and landlords increasingly adopt renewable energy solutions, the question arises: can energy storage systems like home batteries influence your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating? While current EPC assessments primarily focus on insulation, heating, windows, and solar generation, energy storage could play a bigger role in future EPC scoring methodologies.
Current EPC Methodology
An EPC evaluates a property’s energy efficiency based on:
Building fabric (walls, roof, floors)
Heating systems and controls
Hot water systems
Renewable energy sources (like solar PV)
Currently, EPCs do not directly account for energy storage systems. A home with solar panels will score better because the electricity is renewable, but storing that energy in batteries doesn’t currently improve the calculated EPC.
Why Energy Storage Matters
Load Shifting and Grid Efficiency
Batteries store excess solar energy for use during peak demand.
This reduces reliance on grid electricity, lowering actual energy bills and carbon emissions.
Supporting Renewable Integration
Homes with energy storage can better utilize solar or wind energy, reducing waste.
This enhances the overall sustainability of the property, a factor that may be considered in future EPC updates.
Resilience and Future-Proofing
Energy storage increases resilience against grid fluctuations.
Future EPC methodologies may reward properties that are both energy-efficient and capable of storing renewable energy.
Potential Future EPC Impacts
Updated SAP calculations may include energy storage as part of renewable energy systems.
Higher EPC bands could be achievable for homes with integrated solar + battery systems.
Carbon footprint reduction from stored renewable energy may become a formal scoring factor.
Essentially, investing in a battery system today could prepare your property for higher EPC scores in the future, even if current certificates don’t directly reflect it.
Maximise Your EPC Today
While batteries may influence future EPC ratings, you can already improve your current EPC with:
Insulation upgrades (walls, lofts, floors)
Efficient heating systems or renewable heat solutions
Double/triple glazing and draught-proofing
Solar PV installations
At Urgent EPC, we provide professional EPC assessments that account for your existing renewable systems and highlight potential areas for future improvement.
Explore our services:
Contact Us to schedule your EPC today.
Final Thoughts
Energy storage systems, like home batteries, may not yet directly improve EPC scores, but they are a key part of the future of energy-efficient homes. By combining storage with renewable energy, insulation, and efficient heating, homeowners can reduce energy costs, cut carbon emissions, and position their property for higher EPC performance in the coming years.
