The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is set to continue supporting heat pump installations, with expanded funding, new technologies, and relaxed EPC requirements. Alto Energy explains what these changes mean for homeowners and installers alike, and how they make switching to low-carbon heating even easier.
The latest UK Budget brings major developments for the heat pump industry, including an extended Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the end of ECO4, and changes that will lower electricity prices. We break down what these updates mean for installers, homeowners, and the future of low-carbon heating in the UK.
Recent MCS investigations highlight the risks when shortcuts are taken. Some certified installers signed off on work they didn’t complete, submitting government funding claims on behalf of non-certified companies. This puts both homeowners and installers at risk, damages the reputation of heat pumps, and can lead to rejected applications or unsafe systems.
Many plumbers and heating engineers are exploring how to become a heat pump installer as the UK moves towards net zero. With hands-on training, practical guidance, and access to Alto Energy’s installer network, you can start installing air source and ground source heat pumps confidently while benefiting from support with MCS compliance and technical design.
Heat pumps offer an efficient, low-carbon way to heat homes — but only when they’re properly designed. This article explores how poor system design can undermine performance and why partnering with a specialist like Alto Energy ensures every installation delivers comfort, reliability, and long-term efficiency.
With the UK election out the way and a new government in place, we feel it’s important to explore the potential implications for the heat pump market now that Labour has taken the helm. For plumbers, particularly those considering diversifying into heat pump installations, Labour's anticipated measures could present significant opportunities in the evolving green energy sector.
The UK remains overly dependent on natural gas, according to the National Infrastructure Commission (NIC), which provides independent recommendations to the government.
In its recent annual assessment, the NIC highlights the urgent need to reduce reliance on high-cost, high-carbon natural gas and accelerate the adoption of heat pump technology to meet the ambitious net zero targets by 2050. According to the Commission, decarbonising buildings is a critical aspect of this transition and represents the single biggest challenge on the path to net zero.
Last month, the UK government unveiled changes to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, making it easier for households to install eco-friendly heating solutions like heat pumps. The update involves the removal of insulation prerequisites for heat pump grants, a move designed to simplify installations and reduce costs for households.
In 2023, Alto Energy soared to new heights! We expanded our warehouse, revamped our heat pump training room, grew our team and achieved record-breaking heat pump sales. As we enter 2024, we’re excited to see the heat pump industry propel forward, advancing heat pump affordability. The recent announcement from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) regarding increased funding suggests an imminent surge in the heat pump market.
Yesterday Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a raft of policy changes regarding the UK’s approach to achieving net zero. The majority of the announcement related to pushing back the timeframes for bans on fossil fuel vehicles and boilers. However, the Prime Minister also announced a very welcome boost to the heat pump sector, with the news that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant will be increasing to £7,500 for all technologies.
