Malta’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Explained

Malta’s bright Mediterranean climate is famous for its long summers and mild winters, but that sunshine also drives a unique energy challenge. With high cooling demands in summer, growing energy costs, and EU-wide targets for carbon neutrality, energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important for Maltese homeowners and investors. This is where the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) comes in.

An EPC doesn’t just measure how “green” your property is, but instead it highlights how efficiently it uses energy, how costly it might be to run, and where improvements can increase comfort and value. Whether you’re buying, selling, or renting your property out as a landlord, an EPC is both a legal requirement and a valuable insight into your property’s performance.

What is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

An EPC is an official document that rates the energy efficiency of a building on a standard scale. In Malta, it assesses factors such as insulation, glazing, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and renewable energy potential. The higher the rating, the more energy-efficient the property is, which translates into lower energy bills and a reduced environmental footprint.

The certificate also includes expert recommendations for improving your property’s rating. Valid for ten years (unless major renovations are carried out), the EPC helps buyers and tenants compare buildings based on running costs and sustainability.

Where Can I Get an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) in Malta?

In Malta, EPCs are issued by accredited Energy Performance of Buildings (EPB) assessors who are registered with the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). Once the assessor inspects your property and calculates its performance, the EPC is registered with the BCA and officially issued to the owner.

You can verify or download existing certificates using the certificate number on the national EPC portal here.

Why is an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Required in Malta?

Under Maltese law — aligned with the EU’s Energy Performance of Buildings Directive — an EPC is mandatory when:

• Constructing a new building
• Selling or renting out a property
• Advertising a property for sale or lease

The EPC must be made available to prospective buyers or tenants at the latest upon signing the promise of sale or lease agreement. Failure to comply can result in fines and may delay or complicate property transactions.

How Much Does an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Cost in Malta?

The total cost includes:

• €75 registration fee (set by the BCA for both dwellings and non-dwellings)
• Assessor’s fee, which varies depending on property size and complexity

On average, property owners can expect to pay between €150–€250 in total for an EPC certificate in Malta.

Can You Sell a Property Without an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) in Malta?

No — all properties being sold or rented must have a valid EPC. While some listings may appear without one, proceeding with a sale or lease without the certificate is a breach of regulation and can incur heavty fines.

Beyond legal compliance, providing an EPC also signals transparency to buyers and investors, demonstrating the property’s efficiency and potential operating costs.

Who Pays for the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) Report?

The property owner — whether selling or leasing — is responsible for obtaining and paying for the EPC. Buyers and tenants receive the certificate as part of the transaction, free of charge.

How Can I Improve My Home’s Energy Rating?

Improving your property’s energy performance isn’t just good for the environment — it also enhances comfort, reduces energy bills, and can significantly increase market value. In Malta’s hot Mediterranean climate, well-planned upgrades can make a noticeable difference in how efficiently your home stays cool in summer and warm in winter.

Low-Cost and Behavioural Changes to Improve your Properties Energy Efficiency in Malta

These simple adjustments can improve your home’s energy efficiency without major investment:

• Control draughts: Seal gaps around windows, doors, and floors using draught-proofing materials. Thick curtains also help insulate windows, especially at night.
• Switch to LED lighting: Replace all older bulbs with energy-efficient LED alternatives, which use significantly less power.
• Use energy-efficient appliances: When purchasing new household appliances, compare energy labels and choose those with the highest energy rating (in the green band).
• Manage indoor climate efficiently: If your property uses a central heating or cooling system, keep the temperature settings moderate to prevent unnecessary energy use.
• Maximise natural ventilation: Use passive cooling techniques in summer, by making use of natural ventilation and shading to reduce reliance on air conditioning, while in winter, good insulation and modern heating solutions help maintain warmth efficiently.
• Unplug devices: Switch off appliances and electronics at the wall rather than leaving them on standby, as they continue to consume power.

 Short-Term Renovations to Improve your Properties Energy Efficiency in Malta

If you’re looking for practical upgrades that can be completed in a matter of days or weeks, consider these short-term renovations:

• Replace inefficient lighting and fittings: Beyond switching bulbs, update outdated fixtures and install smart timers or motion sensors to reduce wasted energy.
• Upgrade to low-flow fixtures: Low-flow taps and showerheads reduce water and energy consumption, especially if your home uses an electric water heater.
• Add ceiling or wall fans: Fans use a fraction of the energy of air conditioners and are ideal for Malta’s warm seasons.
• Use reflective paint: Applying light-coloured or reflective paint to walls and flat roofs enhances natural light, reduces reliance on artificial lighting, and helps limit heat absorption from the sun.

 Medium to Long-Term Renovations

These projects require more planning and investment but offer substantial improvements to your home’s energy performance:

• Install insulation: Adding external insulation to your roof and walls keeps your home cool in summer and warm in winter.
• Upgrade windows: Replace single-glazed windows with double or triple glazing to reduce heat transfer. UV filters and shading devices like awnings or shutters are also effective in Malta’s hot climate.
• Replace heating and cooling systems: Upgrade to high-efficiency systems such as heat pumps or newer air-conditioning units. Older electric heaters consume more energy and will lower your EPC score.
• Embrace renewable energy: Installing photovoltaic (PV) solar panels allows you to generate your own electricity and can significantly boost your EPC rating.
• Install solar water heaters: Take advantage of Malta’s abundant sunshine to heat water sustainably.

 Take Advantage of Government Schemes

The Maltese government offers a variety of grants and incentives to support energy-efficient home upgrades, helping homeowners improve their EPC rating, reduce energy costs, and increase property value. Administered primarily through the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the Regulator for Energy and Water Services (REWS), these programmes cover renewable energy, residential renovations, and sustainable property purchases.

Renewable Energy Sources (RES) Scheme - Photovoltaic (PV) Systems and Battery Storage

The Maltese government provides dedicated support for homeowners installing photovoltaic (PV) systems and battery storage through the Renewable Energy Sources (RES) Scheme, offering grants that cover a substantial portion of installation costs — up to €3,000 for PV systems, €7,200 for battery storage, and €1,800 for hybrid inverters — with even higher support available for residents of Gozo, reducing the upfront cost of generating your own renewable electricity.

Residential Renovation Schemes – Irrinova Darek

The Irrinova Darek programme provides co-funding for upgrades such as insulation, window and door replacement, shading, solar water heaters, and energy-efficient heating/cooling systems. Grants cover up to 75% of costs, or 90% for households on the In-Work Benefit, with a maximum of approximately €15,000 plus €875 in fees.

Sustainable Property Purchase Incentives – Buy Sustainable Property Scheme

This initiative rewards buyers of homes with high energy performance standards. Eligible purchasers can receive grants ranging from €4,500 to €9,000 over three years, depending on the property’s sustainability rating. The scheme applies to properties bought from 1 January 2025 onwards.

Making any of these changes can move your home up several EPC grades — a valuable selling point in today’s energy-conscious market.

As Malta continues to prioritise sustainability and efficient energy use, the Energy Performance Certificate has become an essential part of any property transaction. Whether you’re listing a Valletta townhouse, a Sliema apartment, or a Gozo villa, having an up-to-date EPC ensures compliance, boosts buyer confidence, and adds long-term value to your investment.

For expert advice on preparing your property for sale or rent contact Malta Sotheby’s International Realty.