Social Rented Homes More Energy Efficient Than UK Average, Says Study

The data from UK’s Office for National Statistics also reveals that flats and maisonettes were the most energy-efficient property types in both England and Wales

The UK’s social rented dwellings have an average energy rating of C, according to data from the Office for National Statistics. The median energy rating in England and Wales is band D. The 2023 report on the energy efficiency of housing in England and Wales, also states that “flats and maisonettes” were the most energy-efficient property types in both England and Wales, with a median energy efficiency score of 73 in England and Wales, equivalent to band C.

Detached and terraced dwellings scored the lowest in Wales (both 64), while in England, semi-detached (65) was the property type scoring the lowest. This may be a result of external wall exposure being higher in houses, compared with flats and maisonettes, which are more likely to be grouped in blocks. Several factors affect the energy efficiency of a dwelling, including property type, tenure, and when it was constructed.

John Tattersall, managing director at specialist financial adviser Centrus, said, “Residential housing is a huge piece of the UK’s net zero puzzle. Domestic living accounts for a significant portion of the UK’s energy consumption each year, and it’s clear from the ONS’s report on energy efficiency that there’s more work to be done to get the UK on track for its 2050 net zero ambitions. This transition is not just an environmental necessity; it also brings economic benefits, with energy-efficient homes often translating to lower utility bills and a significantly improved quality of life for residents.”

“The shining light in the sector is in social rented dwellings. Affordable housing has the highest median energy efficiency across all property types in both England and Wales, in part driven by the hard work of housing associations in updating and converting properties towards greener energy solutions. However, this sector is under intense pressure, with housing associations grappling with the increased cost of both debt and spending; further support from both institutional investors and policymakers is critical to continue the positive movement.”

“Looking sector-wide, the vast majority of properties still rely on mains gas for central heating. As winter approaches, the need for cleaner and more sustainable heating sources will become more and more obvious, especially given the drastic volatility in gas prices over the last few months. The energy sector needs to continue its mission to reduce carbon emissions at pace – England has a fantastic solar energy opportunity, and Scotland and Wales are leading the way on wind.

“Quickly advancing battery technology offers the potential for homes to become micro-grids that generate, store, and consume energy to decarbonise, reduce energy costs, and reduce strain on the National Grid. The chancellor’s Autumn Budget must not miss the opportunity to support decarbonisation through a targeted incentive and initiative programme for the whole of the UK.”