With the UK government seeking to reach net zero emissions and ease the pressure families have been facing this decade, many grants on heat pumps – including air source heat pumps most recently – have been increased by 50%. The cost of installing a heat pump is currently around £7,500.
This grant increase will bring the cost closer to that of installing a gas boiler, which is around £2,500 to £3,000. The government hopes this will incentivise a nationwide shift towards carbon neutrality, but why is the government choosing this approach and how do you know whether you qualify?
Why the focus on heat pumps?
Heat pumps not only provide cheaper and more efficient energy than standard boilers but also carry a higher installation cost, which is a deterrent for most homeowners. The grant removes much of the extra cost, bringing the eco-friendlier choice within reach.
The UK government has opted for heat pump grants over alternative eco-friendly changes to give homeowners the opportunity to significantly reduce their carbon footprints whilst alleviating financial pressure after the COVID-19 years.
This two-birds-one-stone approach allows for a more seamless shift away from fossil fuels, with the massively reduced cost giving homeowners a good reason to get behind renewable energy sources.
As Energy Security Secretary Claire Coutinho put it, nobody should have to choose between cutting emissions and cutting costs.
Eligibility and application
To find out whether your home is suitable for heat pump installation, complete the checker on the government website. The process is simple, requiring the customer to agree to a quote from an MCS-certified installer such as gsmlimited.com/services/air-source-heat-pumps. The paperwork is handled by the installer, with the customer contacted to confirm their decision.
The grant scheme is not the only help the government is offering; for example, the Great British Insulation Scheme is providing £1bn for more than 300,000 UK homes with an emphasis on the most vulnerable families.
Homeowners are not the only ones who can benefit, with organisations free to apply for the Heat Pump Ready programme.
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