Almost £300,000 has been awarded to a consortium of councils to improve energy efficiency in the private rental sector.

York council will lead other local authorities covering Bradford, Hambleton, Harrogate, Kirklees, North Lincolnshire, Rotherham, Ryedale and Wakefield.

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy has awarded £4.3m to 59 local authorities across the UK, to help raise awareness and enforce rules around energy efficiency standards. 

This is likely to take the form of education and advice services, and promoting awareness of councils’ powers to fine landlords who fail to meet minimum standards.

The York-led successful bid of £300,000 will be applied to promote higher standards in private rented accommodation and address tenants’ fuel poverty.

Since April last year, privately rented homes must meet a minimum energy performance rating of EPC E. 

The legislation makes it illegal to rent out homes below that standard, unless landlords have a limited exemption.

Landlords caught failing to fulfil their obligations can be fined up to £5,000 per property and per breach.