EDF launches HPIN Direct to tackle heat pump installer shortage

EDF Heat Pumps has launched HPIN Direct, a nationwide umbrella scheme designed to widen access to heat pump work for smaller firms by removing the need for installers to hold their own MCS certification. 

The programme, officially launched earlier this month and delivered in partnership with Daikin UK, aims to bring thousands more installers into the market amid the UK’s target to fit 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028.

According to EDF, many small businesses are currently locked out of Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grants because obtaining MCS certification can be costly and time-consuming. HPIN Direct is intended to sidestep that barrier: EDF will take responsibility for system design and commissioning, hold the MCS certification, and submit BUS funding applications on behalf of participating installers.

Clayton Browne, Managing Director at EDF Heat Pumps, commented, “We often hear there are not enough installers for the demand in heat pumps. With HPIN Direct, we are changing this, opening the door so that we can get thousands more installers trained and installing heat pumps – it’s an exciting opportunity for the industry.”

Under the model, EDF provides training to local installers and grants them access to BUS funding via the umbrella scheme, without requiring them to secure certification themselves. EDF says there are no monthly or annual subscription fees for participation.

To streamline specification and pricing, EDF has teamed up with Daikin UK to offer bundle pricing covering the heat pump, cylinder and controls. The intent is to simplify quoting and reduce administrative overheads for installers, while HPIN Direct handles the compliance steps.

Iain Bevan, Residential New Business Director at Daikin UK, said, “The demand for heat pump installers is growing ever more urgent - with the current shortage of installers holding back heat pump adoption in the UK market. So, it’s great news that HPIN Direct is changing the game. HPIN and Daikin UK will train and develop a network of local installers across the UK, so they can support their local communities and get more heat pumps into UK homes.”