The UK government has removed a key planning restriction requiring a one-meter buffer between heat pumps and neighboring properties, aiming to accelerate the adoption of this low-carbon technology.
This measure, part of the Warm Homes Plan designed to reduce energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions, could significantly ease heat pump installations in millions of English homes.
However, consumer advocates highlight that this change won’t benefit renters or leaseholders, and the high upfront costs remain the primary obstacle. This is especially problematic for older housing stock, often requiring additional pipework and insulation upgrades.
Gas boilers, currently heating most UK homes, contribute up to 14% of the nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Heat pumps, using electricity, offer a significant emissions reduction potential, particularly as renewable energy sources expand.
Nevertheless, the transition from gas boilers to heat pumps is expensive and complex, particularly in England’s six million terraced homes.
Prior to this change, homeowners needed planning permission for heat pumps within one meter of a boundary due to noise concerns.
Gas engineer Tom Clarke, now specializing in heat pump installations, notes that planning permission requirements presented a significant barrier for his clients, especially in densely populated areas like London.
The delays caused by the planning process were particularly problematic for urgent boiler replacements, as customers were often without heating for extended periods awaiting council approval.
This aligns with Octopus Energy’s 2023 report to Parliament’s Energy Security and Net Zero (ESNZ) Committee, which indicated that this planning rule affected 27% of their customers. The company highlighted significant delays and uncertainty associated with obtaining planning permission.
The removal of this rule aims to expedite heat pump adoption. While noise remains a consideration, newer models meet stricter volume standards. The planning changes also relax restrictions on heat pump size and quantity.
Terraced houses, representing 23% (5.7 million) of UK households in 2021, will see the greatest impact. However, some properties, such as those in conservation areas, may still require planning permission.
The government’s Warm Homes Plan, encompassing this change, aims to improve energy efficiency and lower bills for 300,000 households.
While the heat pump industry welcomes these adjustments, the high installation costs, especially in older properties requiring insulation upgrades, remain a significant hurdle for many customers.
The refurbishment of Sutton Dwellings in Chelsea, involving a new ground source heat pump network, exemplifies this challenge. Clarion Housing Group, despite receiving government grants, made substantial investments.
Kensa’s Stuart Gadsden emphasizes funding as a major barrier, citing oversubscription of the Warm Homes social housing fund.
Renters depend on landlords’ willingness to bear the upfront costs. Clarion’s Rob Lane highlights the resident benefits at Sutton Dwellings, projecting substantial annual savings per home (£450-£500).
Mandatory energy efficiency upgrades for private rental properties are scheduled for 2030 as part of the Warm Homes Plan. However, current EPC calculations can sometimes favor gas boilers due to the assumption of cheaper gas prices.
Nesta’s Katy King suggests that the government could address high electricity prices through tax adjustments, a complex issue currently under review.
The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero spokesperson stated their commitment to developing financing models, including heat pump subscriptions, to make the transition to cleaner heating more accessible.
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