Saturday 28 December 2019

Heat Pumps: New training programme to boost uptake

 

The Heat Pump Association (HPA) says heat pumps can be a vital part of the decarbonisation of heating but greater awareness is needed.

It’s launched a report, “Delivering Net Zero: A Roadmap for the Role of Heat Pumps”, which calls for consumers to be put at the heart of  the change, training for installers and the government to create a supportive policy environment.

The HPA report says that heat pumps can achieve vast carbon savings immediately.

It argues that emissions through the burning of fossil fuels will not fall unless low-carbon heating systems are attractive to consumers, either by improving comfort levels or saving them money. The vision report enforces a message to consumers that heat pump technology can help to address other policy issues such as fuel poverty and air quality.

Installers, says the HPA, will play a vital role in raising awareness among potential customers but there is an urgent need for trained and skilled technicians to be able to design, install and operate heat pump systems properly. In 2020 the HPA will work with other organisations to roll out a programme of training that will take existing heating engineers through the whole process of designing, installing and maintaining efficient low-carbon heating systems.

The report also calls for strong government leadership at both local and national levels to develop effective policy on the regulatory framework for the future of heating buildings to phase out high carbon fossil fuels.

Graham Wright, Chairman of the HPA, says: “The successful widespread adoption of heat pumps relies on the industry stepping up to help shape strong government policy, education and consumer acceptance. This report will act as a ‘roadmap’ in how we can achieve these goals and help the UK achieve the net-zero carbon emissions target.”