Energy Crisis: worries over retrofitting homes as heating costs rise

The Chartered Institute of Housing says it’s concerned about the rapidly rising gas and home heating oil prices and the impact on tenants and homeowners. 

Global factors and high inflation rates have impacted local prices considerably. 

Figures published by the Consumer Council show that 900litres of home heating oil cost consumers an average of £465.91 less than three months ago; today, the same volume of oil costs on average £758.11.

The Northern Ireland division of the institute says its members have raised the rising cost of living as one of the most pressing issues for tenants and communities. 

It says that while the rise is linked to global issues, steps must be taken to help ensure tenants can live in warmer homes.

In its manifesto ahead of the 2022 Northern Ireland Assembly election, the CIH has called for local political parties to create a new, specific fund for retrofitting housing to help tackle fuel poverty.

It has also suggested a similar approach in England and Wales, along with the need to establish a heat and buildings action plan to ensure decarbonisation of the housing stock. 

It says commitment from all political parties is required to invest in Modern Methods of Construction to ensure the delivery of energy-saving homes at speed. It is extremely important that action is taken to ensure tenants can live comfortably, the CIH says.

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