The large-scale drive would also save the NHS £2bn and cut new cases of childhood asthma by 650,000, whilst also creating an economic and social boost for regions with the most inefficient housing, the charity said.
It said public and private investment in an “urgent” programme of retrofitting would tackle health inequalities, reduce household energy bills and help the UK reach its net-zero targets.
A study by the advisory service found that more than 15 million homes across Great Britain are energy-inefficient. It said 13 million of these could be upgraded to achieve a 'C' Energy Performance Certificate.
Its research also suggests that upgrading homes to EPC C level would prevent 570,000 children and adults developing mental health conditions associated with cold homes.
This would reduce the number of days of school and work missed due to illness and likely reduce the number of people kept out of work due to ongoing health conditions in the long...