Cold Homes: Energy Efficiency and the Green Transition in the UK Private Rental Sector

Abstract

The problem of energy poverty has risen up the political agenda in both the EU and England in recent years. Many people in England struggle with energy costs, contributed to by high energy costs and inefficient consumption for heating. Additionally, this problem particularly effects those living in private rented housing, due to their lack of control over their homes, combined with split incentive problems. In light of this, the objective of this study is to analyse the current policies in place in England, and the EU, and, through a comparison, find possible improvements which could be made to the English regime. It will be argued that there are policies which could be implemented in England to help solve the problem of inefficient rental housing, informed by both the EU regime and domestic recommendations. Finally, this thesis emphasises the need to consider the social and environmental dynamics of sustainability together.