UK adds 8,000 heat pump installers in 2023

UK: The number of qualified heat pump installers in the UK grew by nearly 8,000 last year, a 166% increase on 2022.

According to new figures from the Heat Pump Association (HPA), 7,856 individuals qualified last year, a significant increase on the 2,951 who qualified in 2022.

While the HPA would not speculate on the current number of installers, previous industry figures suggests the number could be around 14,000. If these latest figures can be maintained, the UK is well on course to achieve the estimated 27,000 qualified engineers that will be needed by 2028 to meet Government targets to decarbonise heating. 

Whilst the latest data can’t identify whether the qualified individuals are currently working within the sector, the exponential growth highlights the growing interest and investment in heat pumps within the UK.  

Many of the 10,807 individuals who have qualified over the last two years will have received grants from various government schemes including the Home Decarbonisation Skills Training Competition, skills bootcamps and the current Heat Training Grant. 

In a statement the HPA said: “With the Heat Training Grant able to support around 6,000 additional heat pump trainees in England over the next 13 months, we expect this upward trend to continue in 2024.”

“We are witnessing a pivotal moment in the shift towards the acceleration of heat pump deployment and the sector is leading the charge,” said Laura Needham, chair of the HPA’s training working group. “With the support of the government, the sector is investing in building a strong foundation to train the workforce needed to meet our net zero targets. This strong increase in trained heat pump installers demonstrates change is afoot. Having a qualified, competent and committed heat pump installer network is vital to the success of meeting the government’s net zero targets.”