More than 40% of private renters ration energy use to afford bills, study finds

Citizens Advice says 4.5 million people in England and Wales had to cut use, with some skipping hot meals and wearing gloves inside

More than 40% of private renters in England and Wales were forced to ration their gas and electricity use last winter to afford their energy bills, according to Citizens Advice.

A survey by the consumer charity found that 41% of renters, or the equivalent of 4.5 million people, had to eke out energy, while one-third, or 3.5 million, struggled to maintain a comfortable temperature during the winter months. Most of those cutting back were living in homes with low energy-efficiency ratings.