Mike Ockenden, director general of the Association of Home Information Pack Providers, made the comment at the start of Energy Saving Week, which kicks off today.

“The EPC will help to significantly reduce carbon emissions and help families cut their fuel bills,” he said, adding that 27 per cent of total carbon emissions come from homes.

“We have an obligation to reduce this,” Mr Ockendon added.

He explained that the EPC measures the effect of a property’s carbon dioxide emissions by means of an environmental impact rating.

Properties are ranked in terms of how environmentally-friendly they are, with current and potential ratings displayed on the EPC.

Mr Ockendon added that homeowners will also receive “recommendations and cost-effective steps” in order to cut their bills and carbon emissions.

Meanwhile, retailer Sainsbury’s has announced it will give away a million energy saving light bulbs on Saturday as part of Energy Saving Week.

Customers picking up the free light bulb are asked to commit to saving energy and reduce their carbon emissions by making a pledge.

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