The energy performance certificate system – clear purpose but unclear goal (RiR 2021:21)

The Swedish National Audit Office (Swedish NAO) has audited whether the energy performance certificate system is designed and implemented as an effective policy instrument for energy efficiency in single-family houses. Among other things, the energy performance certificates are aimed at enabling homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their houses. Information to homeowners is important in order for efficiency improvements to be implemented and the state-financed municipal energy and climate advisory services are to support individuals in improving energy efficiency.

The audit shows that the energy performance certificates have weak potential to get individual homeowners to implement energy efficiency measures, but that energy classification of single-family houses can affect how buyers value the houses at the time of purchase. It also shows that several of the shortcomings that the Swedish NAO noted in an audit in 2009 still remain.