How Much Can Solar Panels Improve an EPC Rating?
Solar is one of the few measures that lifts an EPC score without disruptive internal work. Here is roughly how far it moves the number.
One often overlooked benefit of solar panels is their impact on a property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). An EPC measures the energy efficiency of a home and assigns it a rating from A to G. Properties with higher EPC ratings are generally more attractive to buyers and may benefit from lower energy bills.
The exact improvement varies depending on the property’s size, age, construction type and existing EPC score. However, a typical domestic solar PV system can often improve an EPC score by between 5 and 15 SAP points, with some properties seeing even greater improvements. Homes that are close to the boundary between EPC bands may be able to move up an entire band following the installation of solar panels.
For example:
- A property scoring 64 points (Band D) could potentially move into Band C with the addition of solar PV.
- When solar panels are combined with other measures such as loft insulation or an air source heat pump, larger EPC improvements may be achieved.
While there is no guaranteed property value increase, improved EPC ratings, lower running costs and reduced carbon emissions all contribute towards making a property more desirable on the open market.