These Regulations amend the Energy Performance of Buildings (England and Wales) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/3118) (“the principal regulations”), which implemented Directive 2010/31/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council on the energy performance of buildings (recast) (OJ No L 153, 18 18.6.2010, p. 13). The principal regulations were made in exercise of the powers conferred by section 2(2) of the European Communities Act 1972. That Act was repealed by section 1 of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018 but the principal regulations continue to have effect as retained EU law by virtue of section 2 of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018.