Average monthly heat pump installations are 39% higher than they were last year as the UK is set for another record-breaking year
The UK is set for another record year for heat pump installations, according to MCS data(Image credit: Maryana Serdynska/Getty Images)
The UK is witnessing a significant rise in both heat pump installations and certified installers, driven by government subsidies.
According to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), 2024 has already surpassed the previous year's record for certified heat pump installations.
We look at what is driving the increase in installations and the number of installers as the UK looks set for another record breaking year for heat pumps.
39% increase in average monthly installations
By the end of September 2024, the number of certified heat pump installations had exceeded 42,000, surpassing the total of 40,426 installations recorded throughout the whole of 2023, according to the MCS.
This marks a significant 39% rise in average monthly installations compared to last year, reflecting the growing demand for low-carbon home heating systems.
Commenting on the surge, Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, said: "It’s great to see more consumers across the UK making the switch to heat pumps for their home heating needs.
"There’s still progress to be made to reach the government target of 600,000 installations per year by 2028, but MCS certification will play a key role in driving further adoption, by ensuring everyone has confidence in the quality, safety, and performance of their heat pump installations."
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What has caused the growth?
The growth in installations is supported by government incentives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which saw a surge in applications. In August 2024 alone, over 2,890 applications were submitted—more than double the number from the same period last year.
To meet demand, the UK government has increased grant availability to £200 million, enabling Ofgem to over-allocate vouchers for installations through March 2025.
Bean Beanland, Director of Growth and External Affairs at the Heat Pump Federation, highlighted the importance of the growing installer base: "Exceeding the total for 2023 by Q4 this year is a tremendous success and confirms that the increased level of the Boiler Upgrade Grant has really stimulated homeowners."
He added: "The significant increase in activity had started to raise a budget risk, so we are extremely grateful that the team at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero responded by permitting Ofgem to over-allocate vouchers for BUS through to March 2025. This will ensure that there’s no interruption in support for homeowners ready to make the switch to renewable heating."
Bean Beanland
Bean Beanland is an experienced professional with a background in energy and carbon mitigation, is a founding member of the Heat Pump Federation (HPF). With expertise in technology selection, procurement, and installation, he has overseen numerous heat pump systems for various buildings, including Listed and period buildings, schools, rural estates, and commercial buildings. Active in supporting the development of heat pump technology and government policy, Bean also leads lobbying efforts for the HPF and contributes to membership growth.
MCS reaches 5,000 qualified heat pump installers
At the same time, the MCS announced a milestone of 5,000 certified heat pump installers, nearly doubling from 2,563 in September 2022.
This increase is seen as crucial as the supply chain adapts to meet the growing demand for heat pumps and other renewable energy systems.
Currently, 58% of MCS-certified contractors are qualified to install heat pumps, and MCS is actively working to expand this number to keep pace with the accelerating market.
The MCS, in collaboration with the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education, has also launched the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeships to attract new professionals to the field.
"The introduction of the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeships is a crucial step in building the workforce we need to support this booming sector," said Rippin. "We need to make sure that there is a steady stream of skilled professionals who can not only meet demand but also uphold the high standards of quality and safety that MCS certification guarantees."
News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals. Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.
