Home Energy Tool undergoing Updates to Incorporate Electric Heating Technology
The French government has unveiled plans for a significant overhaul of the Energy Performance Diagnosis (DPE) system, with the aim of improving the accuracy and reliability of energy efficiency assessments for dwellings[1][5]. The reform, which is set to take effect from January 1, 2026, is a crucial step towards addressing both winter and summer energy poverty, and making the DPE a more trustworthy tool for assessing and improving the energy efficiency of homes[1][5].
**Enhancing Accuracy and Reliability**
The reform seeks to strengthen the reliability of the DPE by revising calculation methods and updating certification standards. This is particularly relevant for dwellings with electric heating, which have often been misrated due to outdated assumptions about energy use and efficiency[5]. The reform aims to rectify this bias, especially in small surfaces, whether for heating or hot water tanks[5].
**Addressing Electric Heating Issues**
Electric heating in France is widespread but has sometimes received unfairly favourable DPE ratings in the past. The reform aims to correct this by integrating more precise data on actual energy consumption and the efficiency of heating systems, including those relying on electricity[5]. The coefficient of conversion of electricity used in DPE calculation is set to change from 2.3 to 1.9, reflecting the improved accuracy of energy consumption estimates[5].
**Supporting Renovation and Public Health**
The reform is part of a broader strategy to improve living conditions and reduce energy poverty. Accurate DPE ratings will help target government renovation aid, such as MaPrimeRénov’, more effectively, encouraging upgrades that lower energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions[1]. The reform is also expected to reduce both winter and summer energy poverty, which has become a public health concern due to the increasing frequency of heat waves[1].
**Impact of the Reform**
The reform is expected to lead to fairer property assessments, with dwellings with electric heating being rated more accurately, reflecting their real energy performance[5]. This could affect property values, with some homes previously considered efficient now potentially receiving lower grades[5]. The reform will also allow the government to better identify homes needing urgent renovation, ensuring that financial support is directed where it is most needed[1].
The reform is expected to create greater confidence among buyers, renters, and builders in the energy performance of dwellings, supporting more informed decision-making in the housing market[5]. The ban on renting out "F" rated properties is set to include from 2028, and "E" rated properties from 2034, further encouraging energy-efficient renovations[1].
In summary, the French government’s 2026 reform of the DPE is designed to improve the accuracy and fairness of energy performance assessments, with a specific focus on rectifying previous shortcomings in the evaluation of electric heating systems. This aims to facilitate targeted energy renovations, reduce energy poverty, and foster a more transparent and efficient housing market[1][5].
Sources: [1] Le Figaro [2] Le Monde [3] La Tribune [4] Cour des Comptes [5] Gouvernement Français
- The reform aims to address a historical bias in the DPE by providing more precise data on electric heating systems, ensuring a fairer evaluation of their energy consumption and efficiency.
- By addressing the inaccuracies in DPE ratings, especially for dwellings with electric heating, the reform is anticipated to reduce energy poverty and promote health-and-wellness by encouraging more energy-efficient homes that align better with modern science and sustainability standards.
