New research has revealed that 57% of homes in England would need energy efficiency improvements to meet the government’s upcoming energy performance targets.

An insulation firm, SuperFOIL, analysed over 25m Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) records to identify England’s most and least energy-efficient residential properties, and how many need to meet the minimum EPC C target by 2030.

The data highlights that around 43% of properties have an A-C EPC rating, leaving the majority of properties still in need of energy-efficiency improvements to reach the government’s minimum C target.

The government’s aim is for all privately rented homes in England and Wales to reach the EPC rating of C by 2030.

Targets for commercial rentals are even closer, with a C rating required by April 2027 and a B rating by April 2030, as part of the wider initiative to reach the UK’s goal of net-zero by 2050. To achieve the government’s minimum B target by 2030, 88% of properties would require energy-efficiency improvements.

This comes as household energy debt has soared to £4.4 billion and electricity bills have climbed another 2% from the start of October.

Improving an inefficient property from a D-G EPC rating to a C can save hundreds of pounds a year on bills, as around a quarter of a home’s heat is lost through the roof if it isn’t well insulated. 

Homes in EPC band D typically spend around £200 more on gas and electricity than an equivalent band C home, while a band F home might spend £550 more.

However, the analysis suggests that it’s worth noting that not every property can realistically reach a C rating, no matter how many improvements are made. Older homes built before 1900, such as those made from natural stone or with single-skin walls, often lack cavities for wall insulation, limiting how much efficiency can be improved.

A spokesperson for SuperFOIL says: “A great first step for any homeowner is to check their property’s EPC report on the Government’s official register. It highlights your current energy rating, shows where your home is losing energy, and provides clear recommendations to help improve efficiency.

“For those in need of financial help, Government schemes such as the Energy Company Obligation scheme and the Warm Homes: Local Grant are available to support low-income households living in less efficient homes (EPC D-G) with measures such as insulation and solar panels to reduce energy use and lower bills.”