The UK Government has revealed that the number of people opting to install a heat pump to replace their gas boiler has seen a significant uptick.
Recent data indicates a significant rise in applications for the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme, with December figures showing a 49% increase compared to the same month in 2022. This surge follows the Prime Minister’s announcement last October, which raised grants for air source heat pumps to £7,500. The scheme aims to ease the transition from fossil fuel heating systems to heat pumps, thereby reducing upfront costs for families.
Energy Security Secretary, Claire Coutinho, commented, “We recently made our Boiler Upgrade Scheme one of the most generous schemes in Europe. Applications are now up by nearly 50% compared to last year. Helping people, rather than forcing them, to make the right choices for their homes will always be my priority.”
Lord Callanan, Minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, added, “These figures show more people want the cleaner heating and more stable bills you get with a heat pump. Our approach to reaching net zero works and because of increased heat pump grants, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.”
The report also reveals a regional breakdown of heat pump installations in England and Wales, with the South West leading with 3,655 installations, followed by the South East with 3,605, and the East with 2,452.
In a separate development, the Government has allocated £80.6 million to develop greener, low-cost heating systems in four new projects across England. One such project in Bolton, supported with £11 million, will harness energy from sewage and waste hot water to fuel a new heat pump. This initiative is part of the town’s first district heating network and aims to offer low-cost heating to local communities, including the University of Bolton and the Town Council.
Lord Callanan stated, “These innovative projects will help drive down energy costs while also demonstrating why the UK has led the way in cutting carbon emissions. They show how energy sources can be found in the most unexpected places – as more homes and businesses will benefit from cleaner heating and lower energy bills. Our upgrades will also make sure our existing heat networks are upgraded – so customers can get the reliable heating supply they deserve.”
Other projects receiving part of the £80.6 million include the Exeter Energy Network, the Hull East District Heat Network, and the Greenwich Peninsula ESCO District Heating Network in London. These projects, along with the government’s Heat Network Efficiency Scheme, which is investing an additional £8 million, are critical in supporting the UK’s carbon reduction commitment and transitioning to more sustainable heating solutions.
