Record number of homes in Great Britain turn to green energy as fuel prices soar

Octopus says sales of solar power systems were up by almost 80% in March, while British Gas recorded a 250% rise in installation inquiries since 28 February. Photograph: Jeff Morgan 10/Alamy

British households are turning to green home energy upgrades in record numbers to try to keep bills down as the Iran crisis sends global oil and gas prices soaring, data from leading energy suppliers suggests.

Figures show demand for solar panels, electric vehicles and heat pumps in Great Britain has leapt since the war began on 28 February, as households brace for a sharp increase in monthly payments when the next energy price cap takes effect in the summer.