Slow take-up of heat pumps

Concerns have been raised about the slow pace of heat pump installations following the release of Freedom of Information figures. Data from the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan Scheme and the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Loan Scheme reveal that fewer than 9,000 heat pumps have been installed since 2019.

Fiona Hodgson, chief executive of the Scottish and NI Plumbing Employers’ Federation (SNIPEF), said: “While it is encouraging to see growing numbers of homeowners and landlords making the switch to clean heating solutions, the Scottish Government’s ambition of over a million homes converted to low- or zero-emission heat by 2030 is simply not achievable under current conditions.

“The data highlights the urgent need for clearer policy direction, greater financial certainty and stronger industry support.”

SNIPEF has also raised serious concerns over the HES scheme’s payment structure, which places a heavy financial burden on installers. Many of them must absorb substantial upfront costs, leading to cash-flow pressures and administrative challenges that threaten business sustainability.

Hodgson added: “Installers are at the heart of Scotland’s green heating transition, but they need a stable, transparent funding framework to remain viable. Addressing cash-flow pressures and streamlining payments is critical to scaling up heat pump adoption at the pace required.

“Today’s CBI report highlights the significant economic benefits of investing in the net-zero economy. In Scotland alone, the sector contributes £9.1 billion, 4.9% of the country’s total gross value, and supports nearly one in 25 Scottish workers.

“However, the financial strain of this transition cannot fall solely on already stretched businesses, especially as they face mounting pressures, including the upcoming National Insurance hike.”