We know we must decarbonise heating, but the question is – how? Some are backing air source heat pumps as the answer; whereas others are holding out hope for hydrogen.
As we begin to move forward from the age of gas, there are many different options for home heating that complement and increase the efficiencies of primary heating technologies.
In the future, rather than relying on a single heating system, buildings will likely be heated by a combination of renewable and low carbon technologies working together, bolstered increased insulation, to achieve high efficiencies and effective space and water heating.
Heat pumps
The heat pump market is set for dramatic growth over the next decade as the government works towards its target of 600,000 heat pump installations a year by 2028, however we need a long term and irrevocable plan and legislation to meet current targets.
The policy and regulatory landscape surrounding heat pumps is slowly coming together, with plans such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme designed to accelerate adoption of the technology while reducing installation costs.
Heat pumps are expected to play a major role in complying with the new Building Regulations from 2025, but I expect we’ll also see increased installations in existing properties and as part of heat networks, which are expected to provide 18% of UK heat by 2050.
Training is straightforward for those with existing plumbing and heating skills, and I hope we will see more funding for installer training schemes in the future. You will need to be MCS-certified to enable your customers to apply for grants and funding.
Solar PV
Electricity is the fuel of the future and the addition of solar panels to an electrically heated home provides the opportunity to go net-zero.
Homeowners can be paid to export surplus energy back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), but installers must be MCS-certified. Solar PV can provide up to 70% of electricity requirements, so it is a long term investment that pays for itself through ‘free’ electricity over a number of years.
Demand for emerging technologies that support the electrification of the heating and transport sector has grown considerably in recent years. Domestic electrical energy storage systems (EESS) are ideal for homeowners with solar panels and/or an electric vehicle who really want to maximise their green credentials.
GTEC was one of the first training providers to offer EESS training and qualification. We believe this emerging technology will have a wide-reaching impact as we head towards net-zero 2050, from building resilience and stability in the electricity grid to allowing homeowners to become more self-sufficient. Something to think about for engineers with electrical skills.
Solar thermal
Solar thermal uses free energy from the sun to heat water. It is a good choice for a wide variety of homes, requires minimal upheaval, and can produce up to 60% of a household’s hot water requirements each year.
Domestic solar thermal training is a great add-on for heating installers. It’s a versatile technology that can work alongside traditional heating systems and low carbon systems, delivering increased efficiencies and noteworthy energy savings, without breaking the bank.
Biomass
Despite some bad press in recent years, sustainable biomass will also likely play a role in the future heating mix. Later this year, the government plans to publish a new biomass strategy which will review the scope of biomass in the UK and the best way to use it to meet net-zero targets. Watch this space.
Diversify your skills
To effectively deliver low carbon heating solutions, we need a resilient workforce of multi-skilled heating engineers who can plan the design of a heating system on a case-by-case basis, considering the fabric and design of the property. Complementary training, including energy efficiency and heat loss calculation, is essential, alongside installation and product training.
I believe we will see accelerated innovation over the next few decades in response to the challenge of decarbonisation. To create space for an effective solution, the heating industry must remain adaptable and open to the potential of new technologies.
The role of the heating installer is diversifying and there will be plenty of training opportunities ahead for those willing to embrace the low carbon economy.
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