Heat Pump News Bites: 26 May 2025

The Guardian on Passivhaus standards

Here's a comprehensive roundup of the key UK heat pump news stories from the past week, covering policy updates, industry developments, consumer experiences, and efforts to dispel common misconceptions.

1. Planning Restrictions for Heat Pumps and EV Chargers Scrapped in England

From 29 May 2025, significant changes to planning regulations in England will make it easier for homeowners and landlords to install air source heat pumps (ASHPs) and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. The updated rules remove the previous requirement for ASHPs to be at least one metre from property boundaries, allowing installations closer to property lines. Additionally, the maximum permitted volume for ASHPs has increased, and detached homes can now install up to two units without planning permission. These changes aim to accelerate the adoption of low-carbon technologies and support the UK's target of installing 600,000 heat pumps annually by 2028.👉 Read more on Propertymark

2. Climate Change Committee Urges Scotland to Reinstate Green Policies

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has warned that Scotland will not meet its 2045 net-zero targets unless the Scottish Government reinstates stronger environmental policies and invests over £13 billion by 2029. The CCC criticized the recent abandonment of key measures, including low-carbon home heating regulations and restrictions on wood-burning stoves. To achieve the targets, the CCC emphasized the need for widespread adoption of electric vehicles and low-carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, in 40% of homes by 2035.👉 Read more on The Times

3. UK Heat Pump Installations Reach Record High in Early 2025

The UK has seen a record-breaking start to 2025 in heat pump installations, with more than 15,000 units installed in the first quarter. March alone accounted for 5,605 installations, marking a 22% increase compared to the same month in 2024. This surge is attributed to growing awareness of renewable energy technologies and the availability of government grants. However, experts emphasize the need for continued policy support and public education to maintain this momentum.

4. UK Heat Pump Market Shows Growth Amidst Challenges

The UK heat pump market is experiencing growth, with the government aiming to install 600,000 heat pumps annually by 2028. Despite this target, the UK currently has only 412 heat pumps per 100,000 people, significantly lower than the European average of 3,068. The Energy Security Bill aims to incentivize adoption, and increasing the rate of heat pump installations could create up to 55,000 new jobs. However, challenges such as high installation costs and limited public awareness remain.

5. Heat Pump Deployment Requires Significant Energy Storage

A recent study published on 19 May 2025 highlights the need for substantial energy storage solutions to support the widespread deployment of heat pumps in the UK. The research suggests that integrating heat pumps into the energy grid will require significant investments in storage infrastructure to manage demand and ensure grid stability. The findings emphasize the importance of coordinated planning between heat pump deployment and energy storage development.👉 Read more on PV Magazine

6. Passivhaus Standard Proposed to Reduce Energy Costs in New Homes

On 21 May 2025, Adrian Birch advocated for the adoption of the Passivhaus standard in the UK to reduce energy costs in new homes. The German building standard emphasizes high energy efficiency, potentially eliminating the need for solar panels and heat pumps. Birch argues that implementing this standard could significantly lower energy consumption and costs for homeowners.👉 Read more on The Guardian

7. EU Could Subsidize 20 Million Heat Pumps by 2032

A report from the Ifo Institute, highlighted on 19 May 2025, suggests that investing one-third of the EU's Social Climate Fund could subsidize up to 20 million heat pumps across the EU by 2032. This investment would drive heat pump adoption, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and contribute to the EU's climate goals. The report emphasizes the potential of heat pumps in achieving energy security and sustainability.👉 Read more on Clean Energy Wire

8. UK Government Introduces 'Smart Ready' Regulations for Heat Pumps

The UK government has introduced new regulations requiring heat pump manufacturers to meet 'smart ready' standards, including stricter rules on cybersecurity. These measures aim to enhance grid stability and consumer flexibility, aligning with the UK's broader energy efficiency goals. Utilities will also be obligated to ensure that battery energy storage systems, heat pumps, and electric vehicle smart charge points can work across different tariffs under a tariff data framework.👉 Read more on PV Magazine

9. Government Plans to Expand Boiler Upgrade Scheme

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has announced plans to expand the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) as part of the UK's Warm Homes Plan. Proposed changes include extending grants to cover air-to-air heat pumps and electric heating technologies like heat batteries. The government also plans to invest in training up to 18,000 more home retrofitters to support the growing demand for heat pump installations. These measures aim to make clean heating solutions more accessible to a broader range of consumers.👉 Read more on Logic4Training

10. Heat Pump Subsidies Primarily Benefit Wealthier Households

A government review of the £1.9 billion Boiler Upgrade Scheme reveals that up to £900 million in taxpayer-funded subsidies for heat pumps may be ineffectively allocated, as 40% of recipients would have installed them regardless of the support. The £7,500 grants are primarily benefiting wealthier households, with 52% of subsidized installations in homes with four or more bedrooms and nearly 60% of recipients earning above the UK average income. Critics argue that the scheme disproportionately favors affluent homeowners, while less affluent citizens struggle with energy expenses.👉 Read more on The Times