More than 50% of Carlisle Homes Rated Poor in Energy Efficiency

According to data, three out of every five homes in Carlisle have poor energy efficiency ratings. Campaign groups warn of increased fuel poverty as winter approaches.

The Office of National Statistics analysis of energy efficiency ratings reveals that, as of March 2021 (the most recent data available), 60% of homes had a value of "D" or lower, implying they are expected to be more adversely affected by the growing cost of fuel.

With ratings ranging from A (the most efficient) to G (the least efficient), Energy Performance Certificates indicate how well a home retains heat, indicating that residents must pay more to keep their homes warm.

Separate estimates from the Friends of the Earth charity show that, as of August, 18% of Carlisle households lacked loft insulation, and 14% lacked cavity wall insulation, equivalent to 9,600 and 7,500 homes, respectively.

Low-income households in Cumbria can apply for a free grant of up to £25,000 to enhance their home's energy efficiency.

The Cumbria Sustainable Warmth Fund will assist people in installing new energy-efficient products in their homes to keep their homes warmer and cut their energy bills.

The grant will cover external and internal wall insulation, roof insulation, air source heat pumps, smart heating controls, and upgrading windows from single glazing to double glazing.

Despite the Sustainable Warmth Fund and the Prime Minister's announcement that energy prices for the average home will not be raised above £2,500 per year, there are still concerns about a rise in fuel poverty.

According to the End Fuel Poverty Coalition, 6.9 million households in the UK will be in fuel poverty this winter, and the latest figures from the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy show that over 7,000 households in Carlisle were in fuel poverty in 2020 - before the cost-of-living crisis.

Source: News & Star

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