HOUSING tenants in Carlisle will face one of the biggest energy price rises in the country according to new research.

The study, organised by property data and insight platform, Homesearch, analysed the energy performance certificate (EPC) levels of rental properties across the country.

Carlisle was found to be in the top 10 worst performing areas with 71.7% of rental properties having a poor D-G EPC rating.

Sam Hunter, COO of Homesearch, said: “With rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis set to worsen, over half of those renting will pay a premium for their energy usage simply due to the energy inefficiency of their home.’’

An EPC rating is a review of a properties energy efficiency and is determined by the level of energy used per square metre and the level of carbon dioxide emissions.

Many of the worst performing areas are in the North of England with Blackburn, Lancaster and Blackpool all performing poorly in the north-west.

Conversely, London’s renters are in the best shape ahead of price rises with Tower Hamlets, Islington and Southwark topping the list.

Energy costs are rising to their highest ever levels with fears that the energy price cap could reach as high as £4,266 in January.