MORE than half of Thurrock homes have energy efficiency ratings of Band D or lower, figures reveal, amid an energy crisis which is likely to see millions of people struggle to heat their homes.

The Government is being urged to make energy efficiency a national priority, after energy regulator Ofgem announced the cap on energy prices will increase by nearly £700 from April.

Figures from the Office for National Statistics show 54 per cent of dwellings in Thurrock had an EPC rating of Band D or below in 2020-21.

This was lower than the average across England, of 58 per cent.

Ofgem announced the energy price cap will rise to a record £1,971 for a typical household as gas prices soar