What is Heat Pump?
A device that extracts heat from the air or ground to heat your home, often paired with solar panels for maximum savings.
Quick Answer
Heat pumps are promoted through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) as part of the UK's decarbonisation strategy. BUS grants of up to £7,500 (air source) or £7,500 (ground source) are available. Combining solar PV with a heat pump is increasingly common in the UK, the solar panels generate the electricity the heat pump needs, reducing running costs to near zero. This combination is standard in new homes built to Future Homes Standard.
Fact-checked by John Rooney, Solar Energy Editor. Editorial policy
Heat Pump Explained
A heat pump is a heating system that extracts warmth from the outside air (air source) or ground (ground source) and transfers it to your home. Heat pumps are highly efficient, they typically produce 3–4 kWh of heat for every 1 kWh of electricity consumed (a COP of 3–4). They can provide both space heating and hot water. When paired with solar panels, the solar electricity can power the heat pump, creating an extremely efficient heating system.
How Does Heat Pump Work in the UK?
Heat pumps are promoted through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) as part of the UK's decarbonisation strategy. BUS grants of up to £7,500 (air source) or £7,500 (ground source) are available. Combining solar PV with a heat pump is increasingly common in the UK, the solar panels generate the electricity the heat pump needs, reducing running costs to near zero. This combination is standard in new homes built to Future Homes Standard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get solar panels or a heat pump first?
If your home is well-insulated, either works first. Solar panels are cheaper and have faster payback. A heat pump gives bigger heating savings. Ideally, plan for both.
Related Guides
John Rooney is the founder of Solar Info and has been covering the UK solar energy market since 2023. He researches every battery and inverter brand against manufacturer datasheets, MCS and Ofgem data, and feedback from the MCS-certified installers in our directory before publishing.