Energy Inefficient Homes Driving Emissions
A recent report reveals that poorly insulated homes in England and Wales are responsible for releasing 30 million tonnes of avoidable CO2 annually, equivalent to Denmark’s total emissions. Friends of the Earth highlighted that over half of the housing stock in these countries—around 14 million homes—has poor energy efficiency. Upgrading these homes could significantly reduce emissions, but under current plans, it could take 90 years to bring all properties up to standard.
Inadequate Progress on Insulation
The report criticizes the slow pace of progress in improving home insulation, calling for the UK government to prioritize climate-friendly housing. Despite existing energy performance standards, which prohibit renting homes with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) below E, 55% of homes still leak heat, wasting energy and money. Friends of the Earth urges the government to take more aggressive action to meet climate goals and reduce household carbon footprints.
Economic Benefits of Energy Efficiency
Upgrading home insulation would not only cut emissions but also lower energy bills for millions of households. The UK government aims to raise the energy efficiency of low-income homes to at least EPC band C by 2030, but progress has slowed in recent years. Since 2015, this stagnation has added £22 billion to energy costs, according to Carbon Brief. A renewed focus on energy efficiency could help households save money while reducing the country’s carbon footprint.
Calls for Immediate Action
Friends of the Earth and other organizations are pushing the UK’s new Labour government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, to prioritize home insulation as part of a broader effort to meet the country’s climate targets. The Labour Party’s proposed Warm Homes Plan aims to accelerate progress on insulation and tackle rising energy costs. However, with winter approaching, concerns remain, particularly for pensioners who have lost key subsidies.
Regions with the Worst Energy Efficiency
Government data shows that Wales and England have the lowest average energy efficiency ratings, with constituencies like Birmingham Yardley and Dwyfor Meirionnydd among the worst offenders. Friends of the Earth estimates that millions of households struggled with heating costs last winter due to poor insulation. With bills set to rise again, there is a growing demand for a national insulation program to be rolled out without delay.
SOURCE: Ref Image from The Mirror
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