Energy Regulator – Ofgem Challenged To Examine Heat Pump Rollout By UK Heating Industry

The energy regulator, Ofgem, has been challenged by a leading energy trade body to examine the real-world consequence of shifting homes from gas onto heat pumps.

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), Mike Foster, has written to the regulator - Jonathan Brearley, calling for a village-sized trial of decarbonizing homes using heat pumps.

The trial will mirror that currently being considered for homes to be converted to hydrogen, another option being considered to decarbonize the United Kingdom (UK).

Heat Pump Village trial

Electricity networks will need massive upgrades to the wires, the substations and even the pylons"

Mike Foster said “A Heat Pump Village trial will replicate what will happen all across the UK, if the government decides that hydrogen will not replace natural gas. Such a trial, conducted now, will help inform the regulator and government of the consequences for the consumer.”

He adds, “Electricity networks will need massive upgrades to the wires, the substations and even the pylons. Homes need assessing for their suitability for a heat pump. That means looking at the fabric of the building itself, it’s outside space, its internal pipework or even where to put a hot water tank. A Heat Pump Village trial does just this.”

Decarbonizing UK homes

Mike Foster continues, “Ofgem should have the consumer at the very heart of its thinking. Reinforcement of the power network will come at a massive cost; the consumer will foot the bill, so they have a right to know what this is likely to be. They should also be told what is required from them in their homes.”

He further said, “Alongside Hydrogen Village trials, a Heat Pump Village trial will provide the much-needed evidence for policymakers, as they tackle the challenge of decarbonizing UK homes. The cost of a trial will be miniscule compared to getting this wrong. I urge Ofgem to step up to the plate and take a lead.”