Here are the areas in England with the least energy efficient homes
New research from Envirohomes Renewables has revealed that properties in the Isles of Scilly are the worse affected as just 14.9% have an EPC rating of band ‘c’ or above.
The Scottish-based organisation studied data from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) which displayed the percentage of homes in each local authority with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of band ‘C’ or above.
Properties with an EPC rating of band ‘C’ often meet the minimum energy efficiency standards required by building regulations. However, having a ‘B’ or an ‘A’ rating is preferred.
According to the research, the Isles of Scilly, which is located off the Cornish coast, has the lowest number of energy efficient homes in England. The data examined found that in 2022, just 14.09% of properties in the area had an EPC rating of ‘C’ or above – the lowest in England by almost 10%.
However, homes in Pendle, which is situated in Lancashire, aren’t far behind. Experts found that a mere 21.83% of properties here reach the required EPC ratings. In addition, only 24.84% of homes in South Essex have EPC ratings of ‘C’ or above.
Research from Envirohomes Renewables.
Commenting on the news, Ross Jones, director of Envirohomes Renewables, said: ‘While there are many ways you can save money on energy for your home, having a low energy efficiency rating can make this very difficult from the start, and costs will add up, and with the current cost of living this can be a serious problem. However, if you live in one of these areas, you can improve your EPC rating by installing insulation, changing your lighting, replacing your boiler, and more.’
The new research, which was published earlier this week, coincides with government plans to ensure all fuel-poor homes have an EPC rating of a least band ‘C’ by 2030 and as many homes across the country as possible are rated a band ‘C’ or above by 2035. Although, the figures uncovered by Envirohomes Renewables show a lot more work needs to be done to make sure these goals are met.
Image: Andreas Gücklhorn
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