Government figures show that heat pump demand is going from strength to strength, as February 2024 saw a 75% increase in demand compared to 2023
To mark the two year anniversary of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme launch on 1 April, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has released figures showing a marked increase in demand for heat pump grants.
In February 2024, applications for heat pump grants rose by 75% compared to February 2023, and was the fourth consecutive month with more than 2,000 applications since the grant was raised to £7,500 in October 2023.
The monthly average for applications received between November 2023 and February 2024 is now 45% higher than the monthly average before the grant uplift.
The scheme has paid out £127m in vouchers to customers so far
Up to the end of February 2024, there have been 35,741 applications to the heat pumps grant scheme.
Energy Security secretary, Claire Coutinho, said: “With the right support – like the 50% increase in heat pump grants – families can make their homes warmer and cut their emissions without breaking the bank.”
Lord Callanan, minister for Energy Efficiency and Green Finance, said: “Demand for heat pumps is soaring, as we make it easier than ever to make the switch to electric heating without big upfront costs.
“Our boosted £7,500 grants are helping people create a warm home and lower their emissions. And with applications up 75%, it’s clear our approach is hugely popular with many families.”
Increasing in heat pump grants applications follows the criteria update
Changes to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme criteria are intended to make heat pumps cheaper and easier to install.
Families will no longer have to install cavity wall or loft insulation to use the scheme, giving them greater choice on how they improve their home and potentially reducing the costs associated with installing a heat pump on a semi-detached property by around £2,500.
Properties should still be well-insulated so families can heat their homes for less and save money on their bills, but by removing mandatory cavity wall and loft insulation, households will be able to spread out the cost of changes at a pace that works for them.
Homeowners can also get support to improve their energy efficiency through the Great British Insulation Scheme and Energy Company Obligation (ECO), which are set to help up to 700,000 families install home improvements such as insulation by March 2026.
Heat pumps are an excellent alternative energy efficiency technology
Charlotte Lee, CEO of the Heat Pump Association said: “It’s great to see the sustained increase and interest in the Boiler Upgrade Scheme since the grant uplift in October 2023, alongside the publication of a government guide for potential heat pump owners which will help to increase the awareness of heat pumps, from a trusted source.
“Heat pumps provide a very efficient, effective solution to decarbonising home heating and enhance the UK’s energy security, and it is wonderful to see interest and awareness from consumers increasing.”
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