"/> "/> "/> "/>

Funding and Knowledge Gaps Slow Heat Pump Adoption in the UK

15.11.2024

The shift to low-carbon heating technologies, like heat pumps, is a cornerstone of the UK’s journey to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. However, new research reveals that affordability and awareness are critical barriers to adoption. Conducted by Energy Systems Catapult in partnership with Heatio and Perenna, the study highlights why many UK homeowners remain hesitant to embrace heat pump technology.

Key Findings: Knowledge Gap

One of the standout findings is a significant knowledge gap: only 31% of surveyed homeowners are familiar with heat pumps, and 18% say they do not trust the technology. A lack of understanding about how heat pumps function remains a key deterrent, preventing consumers from considering this greener solution.

Financial Barriers

Affordability poses another major challenge. Over a third (36%) of respondents stated they would need to borrow money to install a heat pump. Meanwhile, 83% expressed a preference for long-term fixed-rate mortgage products designed to fund energy improvements. These findings suggest that affordable financing solutions could play a pivotal role in driving broader adoption of heat pump systems.

Consumer Motivations and Concerns

Consumers are motivated by both cost savings (65%) and environmental benefits (49%), but concerns over the high upfront costs, volatile energy prices, and the lack of suitable financial products are significant hurdles. The study also found that:

  • 25% of respondents seek protection against potential interest rate increases.
  • Stable monthly payments are a key factor in making financing solutions attractive.

These insights suggest that innovative, tailored financial products could encourage more homeowners to invest in sustainable technologies.

SERT: Supporting Heat Pump Adoption

At SERT, we recognise that bridging the gaps in knowledge and financial accessibility is crucial to accelerating the adoption of heat pumps and other low-carbon technologies. Through our tailored training programmes and recruitment solutions, we aim to empower the industry with the skills and expertise needed to educate homeowners and offer practical, cost-effective solutions.

By addressing these barriers head-on, we can drive the UK closer to its net-zero targets while enabling homeowners to reap the financial and environmental benefits of sustainable heating technologies.

Latest Blogs

Explore top renewable energy jobs in Hampshire and how SERT's funded training programmes can help you start a successful career in the green energy sector.
Discover the dynamic world of Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) engineering in our blog, "A Day in the Life of an M&E Engineer." Learn about the daily tasks, challenges, and career opportunities in this vital field....
Explore the evolving utilities sector, focusing on trends like digital transformation and the skills gap....