Malvern Hills is one of the areas with the least energy-efficient homes in the UK, a study has found.

The research, carried out by Finnish electricity comparison site Sähkösopimukset, looked at the average EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ratings across England and Wales.

The study analysed data from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities on EPCs issued across the UK in July.

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The study found that the area had an average EPC rating of 62.01 out of 100, placing it fourth on the list of areas with the least energy-efficient homes.

The study found that homes in Malvern Hills are 9.74 per cent less energy efficient than the average UK household, which has a rating of 68.7 out of 100.

Teemu Salminen, CEO of the comparison site, said: "The study's findings highlight significant variations in energy efficiency across different areas, revealing that rural areas tend to have lower energy efficiency ratings compared to more urbanised regions.

"This difference likely stems from older housing stock and less access to modern infrastructure in rural locations.

"To help bridge this gap, it would be beneficial to prioritise investments in upgrading rural homes with energy-efficient technologies, such as improved insulation and modern heating systems.

"Such efforts could significantly raise energy efficiency standards, saving money on bills both in the short and long-term and helping with the well-being of residents in lower-efficiency homes."

The least energy-efficient area was found to be the Isle of Anglesey in Wales, with a rating of 55.64 out of 100.