The UK's Energy Security Bill has been officially enacted into law. This significant piece of legislation empowers the government with new authority to modify the Energy Performance of Building (EPB) Regulations, which is a crucial step in enhancing the UK's energy infrastructure.
Understanding the Energy Security Bill
Originating post-Brexit, the Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) Regulations 2012, pivotal in the generation of energy certificates, were integrated into UK law via the great repeal bill. This integration provided the government with an interim period to establish new primary powers for revising the EPB Regulations, an effort culminated in the Energy Security Bill.
Introduced to Parliament on July 6, 2022, the bill encompasses a broad spectrum of regulations. It addresses various aspects such as energy production, security, carbon capture, and regulations related to Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), Display Energy Certificates (DEC), and Air Conditioning Inspection Reports (ACIR).
The Passage of the Energy Security Bill into Law
After securing approval from both houses of parliament, the Energy Security Bill became law on October 26, 2023. This grants the government the (previously lacking) authority to amend the EPB Regulations.
Implications of the Energy Security Bill
The successful passage of the Energy Security Bill allows the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ) to commence modifications to the EPB Regulations. The aim is to adapt these regulations to better suit the evolving demands of the UK's energy market, both present and future. The bill is designed to:
Ensure long-term energy affordability and independence for the UK.
Spur £100 billion in private investment into energy infrastructure, boosting job creation and economic growth.
Fast-track the development of offshore wind energy and support the UK's commitment to achieving net zero emissions.
Before any changes to the EPB Regulations are implemented, they must receive ministerial approval and undergo a period of public consultation.