This report explores how real-world (or in-use) building performance data can improve how we understand and reduce energy use across UK homes, supporting the transition to net zero.
It focuses on the gap between Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) predictions and how homes actually perform in practice. Using one of the largest datasets of measured performance, we show that current models often don’t reflect how homes really perform.
While many homes perform better than expected, results vary widely. This shows the limits of relying on modelled data alone to assess performance and target interventions.
The findings suggest that incorporating measured performance data could improve how we assess and retrofit homes. It can help target funding, improve quality, and deliver better outcomes for homes.
The report also looks at what this means for policy, green finance and low-carbon heating. Real data can support smarter investment, build trust, and speed up decarbonisation across UK homes.