UK energy regulator challenged to examine heat pump rollout
The UK Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) has been challenged by an energy trade body to examine the real-world consequence of shifting homes from gas onto heat pumps.
Ofgem received a letter from the CEO of Energy and Utilities Alliance (EUA), Mike Foster.
Foster calls for a Heat Pump trial to be set up in a similar vein to the Hydrogen Village trials – where around 1,000-2,000 properties will be converted to hydrogen for heating instead of natural gas.
Mr Foster states, ‘A Heat Pump Village trial will replicate what will happen all across the UK if the government decides that hydrogen will not replace natural gas. Such a trial, conducted now, will help inform the regulator and government of the consequences for the consumer.
‘Alongside Hydrogen Village trials, a Heat Pump Village trial will provide the much-needed evidence for policymakers as they tackle the challenge of decarbonising UK homes. The cost of a trial will be miniscule compared to getting this wrong. I urge Ofgem to step up to the plate and take a lead.’
