Around 28% of PRS properties have the lowest Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings of E, F and G, compared with the owner occupied sector (22%) and the social housing sector (10%).
Under the proposals, all PRS properties will be required to have a minimum EPC rating of 'E' at a change in tenancy from 2019 – and rising to EPC level 'D' from 2022.
The consultation, 'Energy efficiency and condition standards in private rented housing – a Scotland's Energy Efficiency Programme consultation', will also examine what further measures can be undertaken to ensure the condition of privately rented properties is at the right standard.
The changes would improve the safety standards and physical condition expected of properties and bring the PRS closer to the standard required in social rented housing.
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Minister Stewart said: "Energy efficiency is a national priority and is key to tackling fuel poverty and meeting our ambitious climate change targets.
"Private renting makes up 14% of Scotland's homes and is an increasingly important housing option for many people in Scotland at different points in their lives. It is only fair that tenants who rent privately have access to good quality and energy efficient homes.
"Minimum standards have a key role to play in driving improvement. While most private landlords are delivering homes to modern, highly energy efficient standards, we must recognise that there are also tenants living in some of the least energy efficient homes in Scotland. These people face higher energy bills and are at greater risk of being pushed into fuel poverty.
"This consultation sets out a series of proposals which aims to balance the need to make homes more energy efficient - whilst maintaining a successful private rented sector as a housing option for many thousands of households."
John Blackwood, Chief Executive of Scottish Association of Landlords, said: "The Scottish Association of Landlords welcomes this consultation. We look forward to contributing to the conversation on how we can improve energy efficiency in the private rented sector and deal with the issue of hard to treat properties in some parts of Scotland."
The consultation will close on 30 June 2017. To view the paper, visit here.
(LM/CD)
