UK areas with least energy efficient homes revealed

The areas of the UK with the least energy efficient homes have been revealed, as the cost-of-living is pushing people into fuel poverty.

Research by boiler purchasing company BOXT reviewed EPC gradings for houses across the country, based on data from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Ratings go from A-G, with A being the best and G being the worst.

Pendle in the North West was found to have the least energy-efficient homes in the country, with just 20% of properties with EPCs at Band C and above.

This was closely followed by Gwynedd in North Wales at 22% and Burnley, Blackpool and Castle Point in south Essex with 23% of properties rated Band C and above.

Data showed that the most energy-efficient homes could be found in Tower Hamlets in London, which was far in front with 73% of properties rated as energy efficient.

Next in line was the City of London, as 63% of homes are rated Band C and above, followed by North Northamptonshire at 59%.

BOXT highlighted how improving energy efficiency can increase a house’s value by an average of 23% through insulation, LED lighting and double or triple glazed windows.

However, climate charity Ashden says the UK is facing a skills shortage if more people are not trained up to retrofit homes, as current forecasts suggest a shortage of 400,000 retrofit professionals.

Ashden has released a policy briefing to local councils urging them to set out long-term retrofit plans and is calling on government to make a long-term national strategy to address the issue.

Cara Jenkinson, Ashden’s Cities Manager and briefing co-author, said: ‘If the country wants to move to be zero carbon in the next few years, it’s essential we learn from what’s already working in terms of retrofit success stories and that local authorities, businesses and colleges work together on a rapid skills training programme.’

Photo by Georg Eiermann