Out with the old: Outdated heating is fuelling an energy bill crisis
New research shows a quarter of UK homes that have been fitted with electric heating are considered to be ‘fuel poor’ due to inefficient ageing equipment.
The average electrically heated household in Britain pays £2,500 per year for energy, significantly higher than the £1,717 typically paid by duel fuel households. It is estimated that around 250,000 homes in the country are currently using outdated
According to National Energy Action and Kesa, switching to heat pumps has the potential to cut 67% of yearly heating costs, while the government’s own War Homes: Social Housing Fund can help landlords improve energy systems and boost efficiency.
The fuel poverty gap escalates in less efficient and poorly insulated houses. Analysis has revealed the following average differences:
- Electrically heated EPC D properties have an average fuel poverty gap of £341
- Electrically heated EPC E properties have an average fuel poverty gap of £1,028
- Electrically heated EPC F and G properties have an average fuel poverty gap of £1,823
‘This winter, the increase in the price cap will mean an estimated six million households are living in fuel poverty across the UK, unable to heat and power their homes,’ Maya Fitchett, Policy Analyst. ‘We have known for too long that a disproportionate number of these fuel poor households rely on inefficient electric heating, making them particularly vulnerable to price increases.
‘It doesn’t have to be this way. When installed alongside appropriate insulation measures, low-carbon technology, such as heat pumps, can help households to significantly reduce energy costs. Often this technology is too expensive for many of the people National Energy Action (NEA) try to support, but the Government’s Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund can be essential in supporting low-income tenants to benefit from this technology. This is also vital to make progress towards statutory fuel poverty and net zero targets,’ she continued.
‘Ofgem’s price cap will mean that customers reliant on electricity for all or most of their energy needs will see additional increases of approximately £70 compared to Direct Debit customers. This means many of these households cut back their energy use to dangerous levels, some don’t heat their home at all.’
More stories addressing significant energy issues can be found over on our sister title site, Environment Journal.
In related news:
Old electricals in your home could solve the copper shortage
