Heat pump enquiries jump 58% as households respond to potential grant changes
A surge in interest for heat pumps follows media reports about potential funding cuts and rising gas prices, though the government has now confirmed it will maintain the scheme's budget.
Includes Octopus Energy's own announcement · See the sources
Key points
- Octopus Energy reported a 58% increase in heat pump enquiries during October, reaching the highest level recorded since March.
- Official government data shows that Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications reached a record high of over 9,700 in September.
- The government has committed to maintaining £400 million in funding for the scheme in the latest Budget.
Publicity surrounding potential changes to government support and concerns over gas costs have led to a sharp rise in demand for heat pump installations. Data from Octopus Energy shows enquiries for the technology grew by more than half throughout October.
The trend reflects growing consumer interest in alternatives to gas boilers as households react to fluctuating energy prices and reports of potential policy shifts regarding home heating support.
Government funding commitment
Following uncertainty leading up to the Budget, the government confirmed that the Boiler Upgrade Scheme will continue. The funding for the scheme is set at £400 million for the 2027-28 period, which officials state is part of an ongoing effort to reduce Britain's reliance on fossil fuels.
Energy Live News reports that while the funding is confirmed, some analysts suggest this figure is lower than previously expected levels, which may impact the total number of installations over the coming years.
Reasons for increased demand
Greg Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, described the rise in interest as the "Barbra Streisand effect," noting that media coverage regarding potential threats to the grant scheme actually prompted more people to investigate heat pumps.
Many households have shown increased interest as they compare running costs. Octopus Energy claims its own performance data suggests most of its installed heat pumps are cheaper to operate than traditional gas boilers, often reducing energy bills for those who switch.
What it means for you
- Households considering a heat pump can continue to apply for support through the existing Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
- Research your individual home heating needs, as performance and running cost savings can vary based on specific property characteristics.
- Monitor official government announcements regarding the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to understand current voucher availability and eligibility criteria.
Where the reports differ: Energy Live News reports the £400m funding is £800m less than previously announced levels, while other source material focuses on the commitment to maintain the current funding level.
Sources
We compared these reports before writing and checked every figure, date and name in this story against them. Read them for the full detail.
- Octopus Energy: The Streisand Effect: Octopus reveals demand for heat pumps jumped 58% in October (29 Oct)
- Energy Live News: Heat pump grants cut causes enquiries to jump 58% (2 Nov)
Spotted a mistake? Email us. This story is based on the reports above and its facts were checked against them; it is not financial advice.
