Heat Pump Association offers free membership to MCS-certified installers amid surge in UK sales
To bolster collaboration within the burgeoning heat pump sector, the Heat Pump Association (HPA) has announced a remarkable initiative: free membership for MCS-certified heat pump installers. This move comes amid a significant uptick in heat pump installations, with nearly 100,000 units sold in the UK in 2024 and a network of over 2,000 certified installation businesses. The HPA aims to enhance the presence and influence of these installers, recognising their pivotal role in the nation’s transition to low-carbon heating solutions.
According to the HPA, this initiative reflects a commitment to support installers with vital resources, knowledge, and a strong collective voice. Benefits of the free membership include access to the HPA Installer LinkedIn Group, bi-weekly newsletters, industry statistics, and the opportunity for members to contribute to government consultations and forums. Charlotte Lee, CEO of the HPA, emphasised the importance of installers: “We recognise that installers are the backbone of the heat pump sector and will be critical in the transition to low-carbon heating in the UK.” This initiative not only aims to provide support but also to enhance the visibility and influence of installers in industry discussions and policymaking.
The partnership between the HPA and the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) represents a vital approach to ensuring that MCS-certified installers have the tools and connections necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving market. MCS CEO Ian Rippin remarked on the initiative's value, stating, “This partnership... strengthens the support available to MCS certified installers.” With the free membership, installers are expected to gain direct access to informative industry insights and policy updates, which are essential for navigating the complexities of low-carbon heating adoption.
In addition to HPA's offering, MCS-certified contractors can also benefit from affiliate membership with the Heat Pump Federation (HPF). This membership provides similar advantages, including access to technical webinars, newsletters, and key industry advisories, thereby contributing to a more informed and capable workforce. Bean Beanland, the HPF's director of growth and external affairs, highlighted the collaborative effort among industry stakeholders to raise standards and promote electrification within the sector.
The demand for heat pump installations has prompted various entities, including industry associations, to expand educational resources and training opportunities. For instance, the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) has initiated a new round of free heat pump installation training, targeting the upskilling of the workforce in alignment with growing market demands. This initiative, developed in partnership with MCS and manufacturers like Worcester Bosch, aims to foster the next generation of skilled engineers in retrofitting homes and commercial properties for more efficient heating solutions.
The government’s commitment to promoting low-carbon technologies aligns seamlessly with these industry efforts. As both the HPA and MCS move forward with their initiatives, they contribute to a broader narrative of sustainability and innovation, promoting an ecosystem where MCS-certified installers are not just participants but active leaders in the transition to a carbon-neutral future. As the heat pump sector continues to grow, the implications of such collaborative initiatives will be crucial in shaping the landscape of renewable energy solutions across the UK.