New data reveals nearly half of Somerset homes are not connected to the gas network.

Thermly found that 44 per cent of the 238,115 properties in the county are "off gas" and use alternative energy sources for heating and cooking.

This amounts to 105,950 homes.

Gareth Robertson, co-founder of Thermly, explained: "Our data has uncovered a high number of homes in Somerset that aren’t connected to the gas network.

"This means that within Somerset alone, we have nearly 106,000 homes which are already using alternative forms of fuel, such as oil, LPG and direct electricity."

95 per cent of these properties would benefit from switching to a heat pump.

Mr Robertson added: "Off gas properties are perfect candidates to move to greener heating systems, such as heat pumps, which will see homeowners enjoy higher energy efficiency and lower carbon emissions."

Yeovil has the most off gas properties, with 11,150 homes, which is 54 per cent of all homes in the town.

Bridgwater has 8,393 homes, which is 45 per cent of the town, and Street has 2,890 homes.

Thermly has launched a competition to give homeowners a chance to win up to £15,000 towards the installation of a heat pump.