As of April 2025, households across the UK were experiencing varying levels of household fuel poverty – England (11%), Scotland (34%), Wales (14%) and Northern Ireland (24%) – as a result of a combination of high energy bills and cold, inefficient homes.
This issue is rooted not solely in inefficient heating systems, but also in under-insulated housing stock. Many residential properties either lack insulation altogether or have insufficient levels, resulting in a situation whereby heat is lost quickly and homeowners are forced to foot the bill.
Measures like installing loft insulation and cavity wall insulation (CWI) remain two of the most impactful ways to improve energy efficiency within a residential property. Organisations like the Energy Savings Trust continue to drive this message to homeowners, highlighting that annual cost savings of £20 – £25 can be made where loft insulation is increased to 270mm –the minimum recommendation for new build properties.
Glass mineral wool solutions like Superglass’ Multi-Roll for lofts and Superwhite 40 Blown for CWI can dramatically reduce heat loss, in turn lowering household bills, whilst contributing to the UK’s decarbonisation targets.
Recognising the role of insulation is particularly important as the UK accelerates its rollout of low-carbon heating technologies in the push to achieve net zero by 2050. In its latest report, the Mineral Wool Insulation Manufacturers Association (MIMA) highlights the key role of insulation upgrades in tandem with the rollout of heat pumps to maximise the performance of the heat pump – a vital step in tackling the fuel poverty crisis.
Equally, it’s key that the legacy of low-quality insulation installations is addressed. Whilst the BSI retrofit standard BS 40104 has been published to support higher levels of consistency, the report from the National Audit Office highlights that adherence to standards, improved training, and installation oversight are key in protecting homeowners. These measures will also guarantee that insulation upgrades deliver outcomes as promised.
By prioritising proven insulation measures – and ensuring they are properly specified and installed – the UK can take meaningful steps toward warmer homes, lower energy bills, and a stronger foundation for the transition to low-carbon heating.
Explore Superglass’ entire insulation offering at: https://www.superglass.co.uk/
