Heat pumps are heating up! New figures reveal that January 2025 was the busiest January ever for low-carbon heat pump installations in the UK, showing growing interest among households looking to cut energy bills and reduce emissions.
Data from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) shows that 4,743 heat pumps were installed last month—up 25% compared to January 2024. Meanwhile, energy performance certificate (EPC) data revealed that 21% of new-build homes had a heat pump installed, nearly double the figure from the same time last year.
Why the Sudden Rise?
Experts say the surge in installations is largely thanks to government incentives, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which helps households cover the cost of switching from a gas boiler to a heat pump. In fact, applications for the scheme were up nearly 80% year-on-year in January.
“The data demonstrates the importance of policy – Government schemes have significantly driven up adoption of electrified heating technologies,” said Irene Omaswa, chairwoman at renewable energy group Ambient.
Heat pumps are a low-carbon alternative to gas boilers, drawing heat from the air or ground to warm your home efficiently. While upfront costs can be high, government grants are helping to make them more affordable.
A Smart Move for the Future
David Cowdrey, chief executive of the MCS Foundation, said:
“Heat pumps are an increasingly popular choice for developers and home-buyers. That is no surprise as heat pumps can bring down bills and make a home fit for the future.”
Heat pumps not only lower your carbon footprint, but also help protect against rising fossil fuel prices. With energy bills remaining high and Ofgem’s price cap rising again in April, now is a smart time to explore alternatives.
What About Private Renters and Landlords?
The government is also proposing new rules that would require all private rental properties in England and Wales to reach EPC Band C or above by the end of the decade. To meet this, landlords will need to consider measures like:
- Loft and wall insulation
- Double-glazing
- Solar panels or battery storage
- Smart meters
- Low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps
These changes aim to improve comfort, cut bills, and reduce carbon emissions—making homes more affordable and energy efficient.
You May Qualify for a Free Heat Pump
With rising demand and government support at an all-time high, now is the perfect time to see if you qualify for a free heat pump or other energy-saving home upgrades through schemes like ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme.
You could also get:
✅ Free insulation
✅ Free solar panels
✅ Smart meter support
Find Out If You Qualify for Free Energy Upgrades
📞 Call Free Heating Scheme for free on 0333 880 8535
💻 Complete our short eligibility checker below to see if you qualify!