Getting Wales ‘MEES Ready’
Alongside building safety, improving the energy efficiency of Welsh homes is a pressing issue. With new minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) expected to be confirmed by the UK Government next year, the Welsh Government has a vital role in preparing the sector, but time is running out.
Why permitted development rights (PDRs) matter
The Welsh Government recently consulted on changes to the PDR regime to assist with the installation of energy efficiency upgrades.
PDRs streamline the planning process by allowing certain works to proceed without full planning permission. In England, reforms have already removed restrictions, such as the “one-metre distance rule” for heat pumps, making it easier and faster to install green technologies.
Wales, however, retains the most restrictive PDR regime in the UK for installing low-carbon upgrades. This is delaying investment and leaving the private rented sector unprepared for MEES.
Wales’ unique challenge
The scale of the problem is clear: 60.5% of private rented homes in Wales currently fall below EPC C, and 43% of Welsh PRS homes were built before 1919, making them harder and more costly to upgrade.
Unless barriers are removed, landlords will face delays and added costs just to carry out the improvements required by law.
The case for urgent reform
The Welsh Government has consulted on changes to PDRs but has yet to act. With a Senedd Election due in May and MEES regulations expected shortly afterwards, urgent action is needed to ensure the PRS can remain compliant.
We are urging the Welsh Government to:
- Implement PDR reforms swiftly, removing unnecessary restrictions.
- Ensure the planning system supports, not hinders, investment in energy efficiency upgrades.
- Take a bolder approach by reviewing other barriers to energy efficiency improvements, such as heat pump size restrictions.
Without action, there is a danger that uncertainty will stall investment, reducing the supply of energy-efficient homes and leaving tenants worse off.
