Strong demand for heat pumps seen as applications for Boiler Upgrade Scheme nearly double
The UK's energy sector is witnessing a significant shift towards cleaner and more efficient heating solutions, with heat pumps becoming increasingly popular. This transformation is largely due to the government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which has been instrumental in driving innovation and adoption of heat pumps across the country.
Monthly applications for heat pumps between November 2023 and April 2024 averaged 2,136, representing a 49% increase from the previous period. This surge in demand is further evidenced by the 93% year-on-year rise in heat pump applications in April 2024, as reported by Ofgem.
Heat pumps, which are three times more efficient than gas boilers, have been embraced by most heating suppliers, leading to a wave of innovation in the sector. Leading energy companies, such as Octopus Energy and British Gas, are offering complete heat pump installations, making these solutions more viable for a wider range of households.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, launched in 2023, offers £7,500 towards the cost of a heat pump. Over £148million has been distributed for heat pump installations through the scheme, supporting thousands of families in England and Wales to make the switch to low-carbon heating.
The government's efforts to promote heat pumps are not limited to financial support. Greater permitted development rights for heat pumps have been established, allowing for easier installations. A £5million Heat Training Grant is also supporting training for heat pump installers, with around 3,000 professionals trained since July 2023 and 10,000 more opportunities by April 2025.
The heat pump industry is experiencing rapid innovation, with the development of smaller, hybrid, and high-temperature heat pumps. This advancement is expected to further boost the adoption of heat pumps, although it remains to be seen whether the government will meet its target of 600,000 installations per year by 2028.
Claire Coutinho, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, stated that the switch to a heat pump is starting to make financial sense for more families. Lord Callanan, Minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, also expressed his satisfaction with the increase in heat pump applications, stating that the government's decision to increase grants for heat pumps was the right one.
The government's support for heat pump installations is making it easier for households to switch to cleaner heating solutions. As of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme's two-year anniversary on 23 May 2024, over 40,000 heat pump applications have been made, marking a significant step towards the UK's goal of a net-zero carbon emissions economy by 2050.
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