Compliance

MEES 2027 and Solar PPAs

Commercial MEES tightens to EPC B by April 2030 for non-domestic let property — and the trajectory is sharper than that for some sub-sectors. A PPA gets you a solar EPC uplift without capital outlay.

What this means

MEES (Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards) sets the floor for the energy performance of non-domestic let property in England and Wales. From April 2027 the floor steps from E to C; from April 2030 it tightens further to B. A solar PPA delivers EPC-rating uplift without capital outlay — typically 1-2 letter grades.

Actions to take

• Run a current EPC assessment to know your baseline.
• Model how much PV your roof can take (target 30-50% energy generation).
• Engage a PPA provider 12-18 months ahead of MEES deadline.
• Coordinate with planned LED + insulation retrofits for maximum EPC uplift.

How PPA delivery fits

A solar PPA delivers measurable, audited renewable kWh from a known commissioning date — exactly the kind of evidence compliance frameworks want. The contract underpins the claim; the M&V annex provides the measurement.

What to negotiate into the PPA

• REGO certificate transfer (essential for market-based claims).
• Reporting cadence and format aligned with your compliance cycle.
• Audit trail support from provider (data feeds, certifications).
• Performance ratio guarantee with make-good if generation falls short.

FAQs

MEES 2027 and Solar PPAs FAQs

Can a solar PPA on its own deliver compliance?

Not on its own — but it's typically the highest-impact single lever, especially for MEES and Scope 2. Combine PPA with LED + insulation + heat-pump for full compliance pathways.

How long before compliance deadline should I sign a PPA?

12-18 months minimum. PPA contracts take 6-12 months to sign and build. Add 3-6 months for measurement and verification before the deadline assessment.

Do PPAs always include REGO transfer?

Most do — but it must be explicit in the contract. Some standardised retail-PPA structures don't transfer REGOs by default; specifically negotiate this if you need the green claim.