Slow progress in upgrading home insulation has resulted in an additional £3.2 billion being added to UK energy bills annually.
That’s according to a recent report by the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU), which has highlighted the financial burden placed on UK consumers due to inadequate home insulation.
The study suggests that upgrading the average UK home to achieve an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of ‘C’ could potentially save households £200 per year.
For homes with lower ratings, such as ‘E’ or ‘F’, the potential savings could be even greater, reaching up to £400 and £550 respectively.
The report notes that the government’s decision to abandon its target of ensuring all privately rented homes achieve an EPC rating of ‘C’ or above by 2025 has exacerbated the issue.
Simon Cran-McGreehin, head of analysis at ECIU, said: “Millions of British billpayers are still counting the cost of inaction and low investment in insulating homes over the past decade.
“Renters are in a particularly difficult situation given they don’t have any control over improving the warmth of their homes.
“Bills may have dropped slightly, but they are due to rise again ahead of winter when having a properly insulated home is the difference between affordable and astronomical energy bills.”
Rocio Concha, Which? Director of Policy and Advocacy, said: “Our 2023 research found that only 14% of households have made improvements to their home’s insulation in the last five years.
“The next government should take steps to help consumers make these changes such as; help in identifying the right measures for their home, support with high upfront costs and a straightforward process to find qualified and reliable installers.”
