The conference followed the Association’s Annual General Meeting, where the HPA presented its annual report outlining achievements over the past year and priorities for the future. Under the theme ‘Heat Pumps: How to go further, faster…’, discussions centred on practical measures to expand installer capacity, strengthen consumer confidence and support the UK’s wider transition to electrified heat.

Proceedings opened with a video address from Energy Consumers Minister Martin McCluskey MP, who reaffirmed government backing for cleaner heating solutions and stressed the importance of industry collaboration. His remarks coincided with the release of the Autumn Budget, providing a timely backdrop for debate on energy costs and policy direction.

Speakers included Paul Kenny, Director General of the European Heat Pump Association, and Nick Winser, Commissioner at the Clean Power Advisory Commission. Sessions examined issues ranging from heat networks to the new installer certification scheme, with emphasis on policy, innovation and delivery. A panel featuring representatives from the Climate Change Committee, Nesta, the HPA, the Regulatory Assistance Project and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero explored how to build momentum across the supply chain.

The day concluded with closing remarks from HPA Chair Mark Wilkins and recognition of past Chair Craig Dolan, who received an award for exceptional contribution to the Association. Reflecting on the event, HPA Chief Executive Charlotte Lee said the anniversary was not only a celebration of past achievements but also a demonstration of the sector’s determination to collaborate and learn in order to secure a resilient and sustainable energy future.