When the dpe evolves, electric heating too

In 2026, the EPC (DPE) criteria change!

Result: the actual performance of electric heaters will be better taken into account.

Starting in 2026, the Energy Performance Certificate is being updated to better reflect the reality of modern equipment, especially electric heating systems.

For many years, electric heating was assessed using criteria that did not fully account for recent technological advances. Today, this is changing. The system is becoming more accurate, more coherent, and more aligned with contemporary usage.

This evolution marks an important step in how we understand the energy performance of homes. It also reflects a broader effort to align evaluation tools with real-world technological progress.

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A long-awaited evolution of the EPC

Starting in 2026, the Energy Performance Certificate is being updated to better reflect the reality of modern equipment, especially electric heating systems.

For many years, electric heating was assessed using criteria that did not fully account for recent technological advances. Today, this is changing. The system is becoming more accurate, more coherent, and more aligned with contemporary usage.

This evolution marks an important step in how we understand the energy performance of homes. It also reflects a broader effort to align evaluation tools with real-world technological progress.

WHAT IS EVOLVING IN 2026

Today, the EPC is no longer just an informational document.

It has become a central benchmark in the housing sector. It shapes decisions, guides renovation strategies, and directly influences a property’s market value.

Whether for selling, renting, or renovating, the EPC plays a critical role. It helps:

• understand a home’s energy consumption,

• assess its overall performance,

• anticipate its market attractiveness.

In an increasingly regulated environment, it has become a strategic tool for making informed choices about equipment and upgrades.

What is changing in 2026?

From 2026 onwards, the EPC calculation method is evolving to better represent the actual performance of installed systems.

Electric heating is now more accurately integrated into the overall evaluation of a home. This revision does not downgrade existing ratings, but instead corrects previous assessment imbalances.

It takes into account:

• improvements in temperature regulation,

• advances in energy efficiency,

• the integration of smart energy management systems.

This update ensures a more realistic and fair evaluation of modern heating solutions.

A NEW RANKING POTENTIAL

Thanks to this reform, nearly 850,000 homes could improve their energy rating.

This is particularly significant because it does not require structural renovations—it reflects a new interpretation of existing performance.

In practical terms:

• current equipment is better valued,

• existing performance is more accurately recognized,

• some homes may gain one or more energy classes.

For many property owners, this represents an opportunity to:

• enhance their property value,

• improve their market positioning,

• secure their ability to rent out their property.

This shift highlights the importance of already having efficient equipment in place.

THE EVOLUTION OF EQUIPMENT TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT

This change reflects a simple reality: heating technologies have evolved.

Modern electric radiators are very different from older convectors. Today, they offer:

• improved thermal performance,

• more precise temperature control,

• better energy consumption management,

• integration of smart technologies.

Sensors, programming systems, and connectivity have transformed how heating is used in everyday life.

Electric heating is no longer a passive system, it has become an intelligent solution capable of adapting to real needs.

In that sense: electric heating has evolved, and the EPC is now evolving as well to reflect this progress.

Smarter energy management

New-generation radiators enable much more precise control of energy consumption.

With intelligent systems, users can:

• adjust temperature room by room,

• program heating according to daily schedules,

• avoid unnecessary energy use,

• maintain a consistent thermal comfort.

This approach supports a more efficient and more responsible use of energy.

It also meets modern expectations, as users increasingly look for solutions that are high-performing, simple to use, and cost-effective.

CONSEQUENCES FOR CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

This evolution of the EPC encourages a reassessment of electric heating in housing projects.

Whether in new construction or renovation, it is becoming an increasingly relevant option.

Its advantages include:

• easy installation,

• high flexibility,

• adaptability to different spaces,

• continuous improvements in energy efficiency.

In a context where environmental standards are becoming stricter, modern electric heating is emerging as a credible and sustainable solution.

A more holistic vision of housing

Beyond individual systems, this reform promotes a more holistic approach to housing performance.

Energy efficiency depends on multiple factors:

• insulation,

• ventilation,

• equipment,

• and usage patterns.

The EPC becomes a tool for understanding the home as a whole, helping identify improvement areas and optimize comfort over time.

Anticipating the changes

Even though this reform will take effect in 2026, it is worth preparing in advance.

This means:

• reviewing your current EPC rating,

• identifying potential improvements,

• investing in efficient and durable solutions.

Taking a proactive approach helps protect your property’s value while improving everyday comfort.

At Fogo, we design radiators built for the future, combining design, thermal performance, energy efficiency and technological innovation. Our inertia radiators deliver soft, stable, and even heat, while enabling intelligent energy management. Thanks to built-in sensors and smart connectivity, they adapt to real usage patterns to provide optimal comfort without unnecessary energy consumption.

The 2026 EPC reform confirms a broader trend: modern equipment is now better understood, better evaluated, and fully integrated into the challenges of contemporary living.