The government is considering changing the permitted development right requirement for heat pumps to be smaller than 0.6 cubic metres, as outlined in a new consultation.
It’s thought that now allowing larger air source heat pumps is preventing the development of larger but quieter models.
The government is also consulting on whether to scrap the rule that air source heat pumps must be installed at least one metre away from the property, which was put in place to limit noise.
The consultation also proposed allowing two air source heat pumps in the curtilage (area around the house) of detached dwellings, to allow for cascade systems.
Daniel Särefjord, chief executive of Aira UK, said: “Today, 95% of the UK’s gas boilers are still being replaced with the same polluting and highly inefficient systems at the end of their lifespan, despite the availability of more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives, such as heat pumps.
“Up to half of these gas boilers are being replaced without even leaving the consumer much of a choice as currently months of planning policy red tape must be overcome before a heat pump installation is permitted. Very few individuals and families can accept to live without heating and hot water for months on end to finally be able to ditch their dirty fossil-fuelled boiler.
“The government finally announced they are looking to change the rules on permitted development, which will play a critical role in removing those barriers and unlocking the true potential of clean energy technology for the UK, while making it easier for consumers to install a heat pump in their home.”
The government said it is putting in place policies to support the installation of 600,000 heat pumps a year by 2028 to support the decarbonisation of heating.
Särefjord added: “Contrary to misconceptions, residential heat pumps only consume a small amount of energy and are actually four times more efficient than a gas boiler. Sound levels tend to be another concern for UK consumers; however, technology has developed a lot in recent years and heat pumps now produce as little sound as a home refrigerator.
“By making the switch to a heat pump quicker and simpler, the UK can reduce its total emissions by 16-17%, making it a critical component in taking Europe off gas. It is crucial to recognise the transformative potential of heat pump technology in lowering energy bills and emissions, and we need more policy changes like this without delay to bring us closer to reaching our nation’s legally binding net zero targets. It’s undeniable that the time for action is now.”