With EPC regulations tightening and minimum standards under constant review, landlords and property managers across Stockport, Greater Manchester and the wider UK are under increasing pressure to improve the energy performance of their rental properties.
While insulation and heating systems often get the spotlight, electrical upgrades play a crucial and sometimes overlooked, role in improving EPC scores. In many cases, upgrading electrical systems is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost a rating, reduce tenant energy bills, and protect long-term rental income.
This guide explains which EPC electrical upgrades in the UK have the biggest impact and how landlords can plan improvements sensibly.
Why EPC Ratings Matter for Landlords
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Current regulations require most rental properties to achieve at least an E rating, with proposals indicating future minimums may rise to C by 2030.
Failing to meet EPC standards can result in:
- Inability to legally let a property
- Reduced property value
- Difficulty attracting tenants
- Increased scrutiny from local authorities
Government guidance on EPCs can be found here.
How Electrical Systems Affect EPC Scores
EPC assessments take into account how efficiently a property uses energy, not just how it’s heated, but how electricity is consumed, distributed and controlled.
Modern electrical installations can significantly improve:
- Energy efficiency calculations
- SAP scores
- Running cost estimates
- Carbon emission figures
For landlords managing multiple properties in Stockport and Greater Manchester, electrical upgrades can often be rolled out systematically for strong long-term gains.
Key Electrical Upgrades That Improve EPC Ratings
1. LED Lighting Upgrades
Replacing outdated lighting with LED is one of the simplest and most cost-effective EPC improvements.
Benefits:
- Up to 80% less energy use than halogen or fluorescent
- Long lifespan (lower maintenance)
- Immediate EPC impact
This upgrade is particularly effective in:
- HMOs
- Apartment blocks
- Commercial rental units
2. Smart Controls and Timers
Smart electrical controls improve how energy is used rather than how much is generated.
Examples include:
- Smart thermostats
- Zoned heating controls
- Timers for immersion heaters
- Lighting controls for communal areas
These upgrades reduce wasted energy and improve EPC modelling assumptions.
3. Upgrading Consumer Units and Wiring
Older electrical systems can negatively affect EPC calculations and raise safety concerns.
Upgrades may include:
- Modern consumer units with RCD protection
- Improved circuit efficiency
- Preparation for low-carbon technologies
This also supports compliance with EICR requirements, an important consideration for landlords.
Speak to us about your electrical upgrade and our services.
4. Preparing Properties for Heat Pumps
Even if a heat pump is not installed immediately, electrical preparation can improve EPC readiness.
This may involve:
- Load capacity upgrades
- Dedicated circuits
- Metering improvements
Forward-thinking landlords in Greater Manchester are already future-proofing properties in anticipation of regulatory changes.
5. Solar PV Integration
While technically a renewable upgrade, solar PV is closely linked to the electrical system and delivers one of the largest EPC improvements available.
Solar can:
- Reduce primary energy demand
- Lower tenant electricity bills
- Improve long-term compliance
- Increase rental appeal
Solar guidance from the Energy Saving Trust can be found here.
Learn more about our solar services for residential and commercial properties.
Electrical Safety and EPCs Go Hand-in-Hand
Electrical improvements should always be carried out alongside proper safety testing. An up-to-date EICR ensures that upgraded systems are safe, compliant and insurable.
Combining EPC improvements with EICR compliance:
- Protects landlords legally
- Reduces liability
- Improves tenant confidence
Why Local Landlords Choose Solarus Energy
At Solarus Energy Ltd, we work with landlords and property managers across Stockport, Greater Manchester and Cheshire to deliver practical, compliant energy improvements.
We are:
- NICEIC Approved Contractors
- CHAS Accredited
- Experienced in rental and managed properties
- Able to carry out both upgrades and remedial works
Crucially, we don’t just advise, we carry out the work ourselves.
Planning EPC Improvements for Rental Properties
For landlords with single or multiple properties, the best approach is:
- Review current EPC and EICR
- Identify electrical inefficiencies
- Prioritise low-cost, high-impact upgrades
- Plan future renewable integration
We’re happy to advise on staged improvements that make financial and regulatory sense.
Electrical upgrades are no longer just about safety, they’re a key part of improving EPC ratings and protecting rental income.
For landlords and property managers in Stockport and Greater Manchester, proactive electrical improvements are one of the smartest ways to stay compliant, attract tenants and future-proof property portfolios.