UK Lags in Heat Pump Installations: Insights into the Reasons Behind the Delay

The UK heat pump industry, still in its infancy with around 15,000 installers, is facing significant hurdles in meeting the government's target of installing 600,000 heat pumps in UK housing by 2028.

John Cruickshank, a heating engineer, has expressed concerns about the government's ability to train the required 150,000 heat pump engineers in time to meet this ambitious goal. The shortage of trained engineers, combined with low awareness among builders, poses a significant challenge.

In addition, the complexity of grant schemes and barriers in grant access have hindered the installation of heat pumps. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, offering £7,500 per installation, has been difficult to navigate due to complex eligibility rules, paperwork, and upfront costs. This has limited uptake despite financial incentives.

Builders and tradespeople often have limited knowledge or experience with heat pumps, reducing recommendations to homeowners and adoption rates. Furthermore, planning permission and noise regulations have delayed installations in the past. However, recent removal of planning permission requirements for units installed within one metre of property boundaries has significantly reduced delays and boosted applications.

The government is taking steps to address these issues. Government support schemes for training and experience, such as the Heat Training Grant and Nesta's "Start at Home" program, provide financial aid and allow newly qualified installers to complete their first heat pump install with expert support. This hands-on experience helps convert trainees into confident, active installers.

Simplification and reform of grants and permissions are also being pursued to accelerate installations. Collaboration with training providers and manufacturers is encouraged to ensure trainees get regional support and opportunities for real installations. Initiatives to educate builders and trades about heat pumps can improve their confidence in recommending and facilitating installations.

Despite these efforts, limited job prospects in the heat pump industry are hindering progress towards the government's target. As of now, there are approximately 2,000 jobs available, significantly lower than earlier predictions of over 50,000 new jobs. This situation is further exacerbated by the delay in greener policy implementation, causing companies to hesitate in investing in the heat pump industry.

John Cruickshank suggests that tradespeople should consider renewable energy as a career path due to its increasing importance in heating and hot water systems. Simon Poskett points out that the workforce currently doing gas needs training for heat pumps as they are different.

However, there are reasons for optimism. Heat pumps are three to four times more efficient than oil, electricity, and gas boilers. With their potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, they are key to the UK's net-zero goals. A new heat pump with a smart home energy solution has been launched, demonstrating the industry's innovation and commitment to sustainability.

Despite the challenges, the UK is currently on track for its target of 600,000 heat pumps installed annually by 2028. Sustaining and accelerating this growth depends heavily on closing the skills gap, simplifying access to grants, and increasing awareness among builders and consumers. The government needs to provide clearer guidelines and consider the needs of the people who carry out the heat pump installation work to ensure the success of this transition.