September Industry Update: Key Developments in UK Heating and Energy

Here’s what’s been happening in the heating and energy sector this September that could affect homeowners across the UK.

Government Continues Heat Pump Push

The government is maintaining its focus on heat pumps as part of the UK’s net-zero strategy. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme continues to offer grants of up to £7,500 for heat pump installations, and the scheme has been extended with significant government backing through to March 2026.

However, industry analysis consistently shows that around 20% (5-6 million) of UK homes aren’t suitable for heat pumps without major retrofit work. Properties with poor insulation, limited outdoor space, or certain building constraints may not be ideal candidates for heat pump installation.

Energy Tax Structure Under Scrutiny

One of the ongoing discussions in the heating industry centres on how energy is taxed in the UK. Currently, electricity carries higher environmental and policy costs compared to gas, which affects the running costs of all electric heating systems.

Industry experts and consumer groups continue to argue that this levy system should be rebalanced to create a fairer comparison between different heating fuels. While no concrete changes have been announced, there’s growing recognition that the current structure may need addressing.

Planning Rules Simplified for Heat Pumps

Earlier this year, new planning rules came into effect that make it easier to install heat pumps. The changes include removing the 1-meter boundary restriction, increasing the allowed heat pump size to 1.5 cubic meters, and permitting two pumps per property.

These regulatory changes are designed to reduce barriers to heat pump adoption, though they don’t address the fundamental suitability issues that affect 5-6 million UK properties.

Building Standards Evolution

Building regulations continue to evolve with an increasing focus on energy efficiency and low-carbon heating solutions. New builds are subject to increasingly stringent efficiency requirements, while existing properties face growing pressure to improve their energy performance.

This regulatory environment affects all heating technologies, with implications for both new installations and replacement systems.

Technology Developments

The heating industry continues to see technological advances across all sectors:

• Smart controls and app-based management systems are becoming standard

• Electric heating systems are incorporating more sophisticated temperature control

• Integration with renewable energy sources is becoming more seamless

Market Trends

Several trends are shaping the heating market:

• Increased consumer awareness of heating system efficiency

• Growing interest in systems that don’t require annual maintenance

• Demand for heating solutions that work in existing properties without major modifications

• Focus on systems that can adapt to changing energy sources

What This Means for Homeowners

For homeowners considering their heating options, the key takeaways from September’s developments are:

• Government support for heat pumps continues, but suitability varies significantly by property

• The energy tax structure remains under discussion, which could affect future running costs

• Planning rules are becoming more accommodating for various heating technologies

• Technology improvements are making all heating systems more efficient and user-friendly

Looking Ahead

The heating industry continues to evolve rapidly, with ongoing discussions about regulation, taxation, and technology. The focus remains on finding heating solutions that work for different property types while supporting the UK’s environmental goals.

As these industry changes develop, homeowners benefit from having heating systems that are reliable, efficient, and adaptable to changing circumstances.

Final Thought

September’s industry developments show a sector in transition, with various heating technologies competing to meet different homeowner needs. The key for consumers is understanding which solutions work best for their specific property and circumstances.

For more information about heating solutions that work for your property, contact Trust Electric Heating at [email protected] or 0800 5999 109.

Tags: Industry insights.