Why Electricians Should Prepare for Rental Energy-Efficiency Upgrades
- yuka371
- Oct 23
- 4 min read
It might seem like all we’ve talked about lately is sustainability, smarter homes, and energy efficiency — and for good reason. These aren't just buzzwords anymore, they're shaping how homes are built, retrofitted and maintained across the UK.
As electricians and contractors, you're at a forefront of this change, helping customers make choices that improve not only comfort, but also cut energy bills, and support a greener, more efficient future. While price, ease of installation, and customer preference are still important, sustainability and energy performance are now key to every install.
This month, we’ve partnered with Ecostrad to explore the upcoming energy-efficiency regulations for rental properties and what these mean for landlords, and importantly, the opportunities these create for you.
We’ll also highlight Ecostrad’s new Magma HHR storage heater, a future-ready, compliant solution for landlords upgrading their properties to meet the new standards.
What’s Changing with Rental Energy-Efficiency Rules
The UK government plans to raise the minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating for all rented homes to rating C by 2030.
According to the government, currently less than 48% of private rented homes in England have an EPC rating of C and above. Currently, the minimum EPC rating for private rental properties is E, meaning millions of properties will require energy-efficiency upgrades over the next few years.
The move aims to help to:
Reduce fuel poverty and heating costs for renters
Improve overall housing quality and comfort
Supports the UK’s commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
What is an EPC Rating and What's Changing?
An EPC measures a property’s overall energy efficiency, breaking down different aspects such as insulation, heating, windows and lighting. It rates the property from A-G, with A being the most energy-efficient.
The government is also developing a new assessment model, the Home Energy Model (HEM), which will replace the current Standard Assessment Procedure (SAP).
One flaw with the current SAP is how electric heating is rated in terms of energy efficiency. SAP is more about the base unit cost of energy and gas heating often ranks higher than modern electric radiators and heat pumps, even when they’re more sustainable and controllable.
The new proposed HEM approach introduces multiple metrics to better reflect real-world performance:
Energy cost – how efficiency affects bills
Carbon – estimated emissions from energy use
Energy use – total consumption and potential for improvement
Fabric performance – how well a building retains heat
Heating system – efficiency and environmental impact of heating sources
Smart readiness – ability to adopt smart tech for optimisation and tariff savings
Why this Matters to Electricians and Contractors:
As these regulations move closer, landlords across the UK will start upgrading outdated heating systems, creating a major opportunity for electricians and contractors.
By staying informed and confident about energy-efficient solutions, you can position yourself as not just an installer, but as a trusted energy-efficiency advisor.
Landlords will be looking to you for:
Guidance on compliant, cost-effective upgrades
Advice on smart, efficient systems that improve EPC ratings
Reliable installation and maintenance support
The trade is shifting fast. Electricians who understand the new energy landscape will not only help customers stay compliant but also win more work, build stronger client relationships, and future-proof their business.
Future-Ready Heating Choices for Landlords
With these new EPC standards, electric heating will play a huge role in helping properties meet compliance, particularly in flats, HMO’s and holiday lets.
Unlike centralised systems, standalone electric heaters such as electric radiators, panels and infrared units can heat individual rooms efficiently, converting 100% of energy into useable heat.
Two standout options:
Ceramic Radiators: these are likely to shine as they heat up quickly and are also slow to cool since they deliver 50% of their heat via radiation.
Storage heaters: store energy overnight on cheaper tariffs and release it gradually throughout the day. An ideal heating option for properties where tenants are home during daytime hours.
Meet Ecostrad’s Magma HHR:
Ecostrad’s new Magma HHR is a next-generation high-heat retention (HHR) storage heater designed for comfort, efficiency, and compliance.
Combining sleek design with advanced German technology, the superior insulation and precision to engineering ensures maximum efficiency and heat retention.
Using Magma Core Thermal Technology, featuring high-iron Ferolite bricks that retains heat and releases it gradually throughout the day.
This means fewer units are needed for the same output, making installs faster, easier and more cost-effective for both landlords and contractors.
Key Features and Benefits:
German engineered
High Heat-Retentive Ferolite Brick
WiFi Compatible
Dual or Single supply installation
10-year warranty on body and 2-Year Electrics
Boost Mode
Daily & Weekly Programming
Stay informed - stay ahead
As regulations evolve, we believe those who choose to stay informed will stay in demand. Electricians who understand EPC changes and energy-efficient technology will stay ahead of the curve.
At 7 Core Electrical, we are here to support you with the latest product insights, product training and expert guidance on energy-efficient heating solutions.
Ready to help your customers prepare for EPC changes?
Explore Ecostrad’s Magma HHR today, get in touch or visit our trade counter for more information!
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