Over 40% of Private Renters Forced to Ration Energy to Afford Bills, Study Reveals

Published: 15 September ‘2025. The English Chronicle Desk

A recent study by Citizens Advice has revealed that more than 40% of private renters in England and Wales were compelled to ration their gas and electricity usage last winter in order to manage the cost of their energy bills. The survey, conducted by the consumer charity, found that roughly 41% of renters—equivalent to 4.5 million people—had to restrict their energy consumption, while around a third, or 3.5 million, struggled to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature during the colder months. Those most affected were living in properties with low energy-efficiency ratings, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by tenants in poorly insulated homes.

The report indicates that some renters resorted to extreme measures to stay within budget, including skipping hot meals, wearing gloves indoors, and limiting heating to a single room. Clare Moriarty, Chief Executive of Citizens Advice, warned that advisers expect a rise in calls from tenants confronting harsh winter conditions in draughty and inefficient homes. She urged the government to accelerate the implementation of stricter regulations for landlords, mandating that properties achieve a minimum Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C by 2030. Moriarty emphasized that renters must be able to demand improvements without fear of retaliation, and any delay in enforcing these measures would prolong the hardship faced by those living in substandard housing.

The study highlighted that private renters are disproportionately affected by energy inefficiency. Over half—57%—live in homes rated EPC D or lower, reflecting below-average energy performance. Citizens Advice estimated that tenants in homes rated EPC E spent an additional £317 on energy bills last winter, while those in the least efficient properties incurred extra costs of up to £440. The findings underscore the potential savings and comfort improvements that could be realized if homes were upgraded to the recommended standard.

Despite the clear benefits of energy-efficient upgrades, many renters remain hesitant to request improvements from their landlords due to concerns about rent increases or creating tension. The charity reported that nearly one-third of tenants avoided asking for upgrades for fear of repercussions, while of those who did make requests, 13% experienced rent hikes and 7% faced outright refusals. Emily Wise, an energy adviser with Citizens Advice in North East Lancashire, described these patterns as a familiar and troubling scenario, reflecting the reluctance of some landlords to address substandard living conditions.

The research, conducted in February, combined an online survey of over 2,400 private renters across England and Wales with detailed interviews and focus groups later in the year, providing a comprehensive view of the challenges renters face in maintaining affordable warmth in their homes.

A government spokesperson responded to the findings, emphasizing the importance of warm and comfortable homes for all citizens. The spokesperson noted that consultations on plans to require private rented properties to achieve an EPC C rating by 2030 are ongoing. If implemented, the changes could lift as many as half a million homes out of fuel poverty, while simultaneously reducing energy costs for renters by hundreds of pounds annually.

The study highlights the urgent need for improved energy efficiency in the private rental sector. With rising energy costs and colder winters on the horizon, the pressure on tenants living in poorly insulated homes is expected to intensify, making timely action from both landlords and policymakers critical to protect vulnerable renters and ensure affordable, sustainable living conditions.