Gas boiler installations in the UK outpaced heat pump fittings by more than 15 to one last year, highlighting how far the country still has to go in meeting its clean energy targets.
According to new research by the Resolution Foundation, the uptake of low-carbon alternatives is well off track — with poorer households particularly shut out of the transition.
Fewer than 100,000 heat pumps were installed across the UK in 2023, compared to around 1.5 million gas boilers, the majority of which were replacements. Worryingly, only 13% of new homes were fitted with heat pumps, meaning gas remains the default heating method in most new-build properties.
The government’s net zero plans require around 450,000 heat pumps to be installed each year by 2030, but current trends fall far short. High upfront costs are a major barrier, particularly for low-income households.
The £7,500 boiler upgrade scheme grant available in England and Wales still leaves homeowners paying an average of £5,400 out of pocket. That’s unaffordable for many — and it’s showing in the distribution of heat pump adoption.
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