Millions missing out on energy saving improvements

More than 60% of households can’t afford upgrades to slash bills and 11% have no idea what an EPC is

Three-fifths of UK households (60%) say they cannot afford vital home improvements that would reduce their energy bills and carbon footprint, according to new research from Uswitch.com.

Shockingly, nearly seven million households (24%) remain unaware of government grants available to fund these energy-saving upgrades.

The findings highlight a critical barrier to net zero ambitions, with half of homeowners (52%) stating they would apply for grants if they knew they were eligible.

However, widespread confusion persists – only 29% of households know their home’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, while 11% have never heard of an EPC.

The UK’s ageing housing stock presents a major challenge.

Government data reveals 90% of the nation’s nine million solid-wall homes lack proper insulation, while over eight million properties don’t have adequate loft insulation.

These inefficiencies force households to use more energy for heating, driving up both bills and emissions.

“Millions of households would like to improve their draughty, uninsulated homes, but too many people can’t afford the upgrades that would reduce their energy bills,” said Ben Gallizzi, energy expert at Uswitch.com.

Regional disparities in take-up are stark.

Bradford leads with 379 ECO4 grants claimed per 1,000 households, compared to just nine in London’s Battersea.

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme, which funds insulation and heating upgrades, remains unknown to 68% of households.

Available schemes include:

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme for heat pump installations
Great British Insulation Scheme for cavity wall and loft insulation
Regional programmes like Warmer Homes Scotland

As winter approaches, the call to action is clear: check your eligibility today and help build a more sustainable, affordable future for UK homes.

SERVICES

ABOUT US

CLIENTS

INSIGHTS