Regulations and skills underpin progress on net zero buildings

As businesses set out to make early gains towards net zero, Chris Caton from Ideal Heating explores how the deployment of heat pump technology can help drive the low carbon transition in the UK.

Heating and hot water in buildings are responsible for a fifth (21%) of total carbon emissions in the UK. It’s clear then that an increased adoption of low carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps, in commercial properties will be a significant step towards decarbonisation and improved energy efficiency – as well as helping businesses cut costs and hedge against volatile energy prices.

However, the successful uptake of heat pump technology depends on a number of factors, including the availability of funding and incentives, government policy, and the right education for heating engineers and installers.

Big potential to save

When fitted in commercial buildings, heat pumps can lead to a 65-70% reduction in carbon emissions, compared to traditional gas or electric boilers, although the exact reduction depends on factors including the efficiency of the heat pump, and size and fabric of the building.

Regulation changes are pushing the UK towards more energy efficient technology like