British Energy Efficiency Federation (BEEF)

The British Energy Efficiency Federation (BEEF) is a long-standing forum that brings together leading organisations across the built environment, manufacturing, energy networks, housing, and public policy to influence UK energy efficiency strategy.

Established to ensure that energy efficiency remains at the forefront of national decision-making, BEEF provides a coordinated industry voice into government discussions, policy development and regulatory change.

The Federation works closely with departments including Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), Department of Business and Trade (DBT) and the National Energy System Operator (NESO), and engages directly with bodies such as the Committee on Fuel Poverty and the Climate Change Committee. Its collaborative approach allows members to share evidence, build consensus and shape practical policy recommendations that support both decarbonisation and consumer outcomes.

 

Members

BEEF brings together a broad range of organisations committed to improving the UK’s building stock and reducing energy demand. Members include:

  • Trade associations representing energy efficiency, building products, glazing, insulation, heating, and building performance sectors
  • Professional bodies and policy groups working on fuel poverty, retrofit delivery, planning and housing
  • Industry organisations involved in standards, testing, skills and supply chain capability
  • The Lighting Industry Association (LIA), representing the UK lighting sector

 

  • The LIA – Lighting Industry Association
  • BEAMA – UK trade association for manufacturers of electrical infrastructure & systems
  • MIMA – Mineral Wool Insulation Manufacturers Association
  • INCA – Insulated Render and Cladding Association
  • BMF – Builders Merchants Federation
  • BPMA – British Pump Manufacturers Association
  • BBSA – British Blind and Shutter Association (shading / overheating risk)
  • SEA – Sustainable Energy Association
  • EPFA – European Phenolic Foam Association (insulation)
  • GGF – Glass and Glazing Federation
  • IMA – Insulation Manufacturers Association
  • OFTEC – Oil Firing Technical Association (now focused on liquid biofuels transition)
  • PEPA – Property Energy Professionals Association (EPC assessors & methodology)
  • AECB – Association for Environment Conscious Building
  • Energy for London – Regional energy and fuel poverty policy organisation
  • National Energy Systems Operator (NESO) – frequent contributor / technical input
  • Committee on Fuel Poverty (CFP) – invited policy contributor
  • Good Homes Alliance (GHA) – new build & retrofit quality and performance
  • Healthy Homes & Buildings Coalition (HHBC) – Secretariat / health & housing link

What BEEF Works On

BEEF provides structured dialogue and evidence-led recommendations to government in areas such as:

Policy Theme Focus Areas
Fabric-First Retrofit Prioritising insulation, glazing, ventilation, and high-efficiency lighting and controls to lower energy demand ahead of low-carbon heating measures, improving both affordability and building performance.
Fuel Poverty & Social Justice Supporting fair access to warm, healthy homes through targeted programmes and whole-house upgrade approaches.
Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) Advocating for clear timelines and practical implementation for both domestic and non-domestic buildings.
EPC and Building Performance Reform Supporting the shift from EPCs as static certificates to dynamic, actionable building performance platforms.
Future Homes & Buildings Standards Contributing evidence to ensure new homes are fit for a net-zero future and avoid the need for later retrofit.
Whole-System Energy Planning Working with NESO on future energy scenarios, demand flexibility and the role of efficiency in reducing national energy needs.

 

Why This Matters

High-quality energy efficiency measures reduce energy bills, improve health and comfort, support decarbonisation, and strengthen the UK supply chain. The LIA’s role within BEEF ensures that lighting is recognised as part of this wider system, not only as an energy-saving technology, but as a contributor to wellbeing, safety, and building performance.