Solar & Renewables

Heat Pump

Heat pumps extract warmth from air, ground, or water to heat buildings efficiently, eligible for government incentives when installed by MCS-certified installers.

What is a Heat Pump?

A heat pump is a renewable heating system that extracts heat from a natural source (air, ground, or water) and transfers it into a building. They work like a refrigerator in reverse.

Types of Heat Pumps

TypeHeat SourceInstallation
Air Source (ASHP)Outside airExternal unit, minimal groundwork
Ground Source (GSHP)UndergroundRequires boreholes or trenches
Water SourceLakes, riversRequires water access

Heat Pump Efficiency

Heat pumps are measured by Coefficient of Performance (COP):

  • COP of 3 means 3kW heat output for 1kW electricity input
  • Typical ASHPs achieve COP of 2.5-3.5
  • GSHPs can achieve COP of 3.5-4.5

MCS Certification

For heat pumps to qualify for government incentives:

  • Must be installed by MCS-certified installer
  • Product must be MCS-certified
  • Installation must meet MIS 3005 standard

Government Incentives

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) offers:

  • 7,500 GBP for air source heat pumps
  • 7,500 GBP for ground source heat pumps
  • Must be installed in eligible properties

Heat Pumps and Solar

Combining heat pumps with solar PV maximises benefits:

  • Solar generates electricity to power the heat pump
  • Reduces running costs significantly
  • Both require MCS certification for incentives