The HPA’s Key Asks are designed to provide a clear roadmap for policymakers, ensuring that the UK can meet its ambitious climate emission reduction targets whilst supporting consumers and industry alike. The Association emphasises the need for the new Government to prioritise these initiatives to provide the sector with confidence and clarity. Only then will the full potential of heat pump technology be unlocked, which is essential for decarbonising the heating sector and reducing the country’s reliance on fossil fuels and reducing carbon emissions.
The five Key Asks from the Heat Pump Association, which are underpinned by more detailed policy recommendations, are to:
- Pursue regulatory change and promised policy developments to unlock the barriers to the widescale deployment of heat pumps.
- Reduce the upfront and running costs of heat pumps to make the lowest carbon heat the lowest cost heat.
- Ensure we have an adequate, skilled and competent workforce to support a smooth transition to low-carbon heating.
- Engage consumers in the transition to low-carbon heating to enable a smooth and supported approach.
- Support all those working in the heat pump supply chain by ensuring technical standards remain up to date.
Charlotte Lee, CEO of the Heat Pump Association, highlighted the critical importance of these recommendations, commenting: 'The upcoming general election presents a pivotal opportunity for the new Government to demonstrate, through action, its commitment to reducing the UK’s carbon emissions in line with the UK’s legally binding targets. Heat pumps are a proven, efficient and scalable technology that can drastically reduce carbon emissions from heating. By adopting our Key Asks, the new Government can accelerate the decarbonisation of heating, support job creation, increase private sector investment, and crucially enhance the UK’s energy security and help consumers reduce their energy bills.'
'It’s imperative that the new Government provides the necessary support to ensure a smooth transition to low-carbon heating. This includes not only financial incentives but also robust policy frameworks and investment in correct skills and training. Our Key Asks are not just about the environmental benefits; they are about creating a cost-effective, stable and smooth transition to low-carbon heating that works for everyone.'
The Heat Pump Association will continue to advocate for these critical measures in the run-up to the election and beyond, ensuring that the voice of the industry is heard and promoting the benefits of heat pump technology in the UK’s journey to net zero.
Read the HPA’s Key asks in full: https://www.heatpumps.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Heat-Pump-Association-recommendations-for-the-next-Government.pdf