When choosing a heating system for your new-build project, it’s now time to move away from the previous default option of a conventional gas boiler. James Chaplen of Mitsubishi Electric says that UK’s net zero target is just one reason to shift your decision-making criteria

Net zero is now high on the Government’s agenda, meaning the days for fossil fuel heating solutions are numbered. Opting for a low-carbon alternative, such as a heat pump, not only helps you stay ahead of upcoming regulations but also comes with a host of other benefits that are good for your wallet and the planet.

One of the big benefits of choosing a heat pump is that it saves money in the long run. While the upfront cost may be a bit higher than traditional systems – like gas boilers – the energy savings and reduced heating bills over time make it a smart financial move. 

But it’s not just about the money. Choosing a low-carbon heating option like a heat pump also aligns with the broader goal of sustainability. By cutting back on fossil fuels, you’re directly reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions, which is crucial for combating climate change. Additionally, having an eco-friendly heating system can enhance the value of your property, making it more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers.

In this changing landscape of eco-awareness and evolving energy choices, opting for a low-carbon heating solution like a heat pump is not just a practical decision; it’s a step towards a brighter, greener future. It saves you money, makes a positive impact on the environment, and keeps your project in line with future regulations – a win-win for you and the planet.

WHAT ABOUT HYDROGEN?

Hydrogen has been a buzzword in the low-carbon world for a while, and while it sounds promising, it’s not always as energy efficient as it’s made out to be.

Producing hydrogen requires a huge amount of electricity. The electricity used to produce hydrogen could be put to much better use. One compelling alternative is to channel that electricity directly into heat pumps. By opting for heat pumps instead of hydrogen production, the UK will be able to reach net zero in a more efficient way that is more manageable for consumers over time.

Hydrogen also is not guaranteed as a fully renewable energy source due to its varying production methods – known as Grey, Blue, and Green. While Green runs off renewable energy sources like solar and wind, Blue and Grey still use fossil fuels to power production. Grey is also the most toxic to the environment, as carbon emissions are not captured once released. Unfortunately, Grey is the most widely used production method at the moment – with 92% of global hydrogen produced this way in 2022.

So, while hydrogen might be getting some attention in the context of low-carbon heating options, sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. Heat pumps are a proven way to achieve efficient, eco-friendly heating for a home. 

THE HEAT PUMP SOLUTION IN A COST-OF-LIVING CRISIS

The cost of home heating is at front of mind for us all, and recent research by Mitsubishi Electric and Ipsos shows that 55% of Britons want the cost-of-living crisis to be a priority on the Government’s agenda. As we approach winter, this concern is ever present. How can we heat our homes in a way that is both cost-effective and healthy for the planet?

Luckily, there is a solution. Heat pumps are extremely energy efficient – capable of providing up to three times more energy than they consume. This makes them a great choice for savvy homebuilders looking to save money while reducing carbon emissions. Heat pump technology allows for highly energy efficient residential heating, as for every kW of electricity consumed, a heat pump can produce 3 kWs of heat energy. In comparison, a typical gas boiler produces less than 1 kW of heat energy.

Less energy used means less money spent on bills. When two in three Britons think that the worst is yet to come with the cost-of-living crisis, a money saving option like heat pumps couldn’t be more relevant.

FUTUREPROOFING WITH HEAT PUMPS

Investing in a heat pump is not just a smart choice for today, but also a crucial step towards futureproofing your home. In an era marked by growing climate consciousness and stringent environmental regulations, making sure you are prepared for the future is essential. 

By harnessing renewable energy sources such as air and ground, heat pumps operate with significantly lower carbon footprints. Installing one will help you contribute to the fight for net zero while also avoiding potential future penalties or restrictions associated with fossil fuel-based heating.

Not only this, but heat pumps also futureproof the value of your home if you choose to sell. As more buyers seek energy-efficient, environmentally friendly homes, having a home purpose-built to house a heat pump can significantly increase your property’s marketability. It sets your house apart as a forward-thinking, sustainable choice in a competitive market.

As we get closer to the 2050 net zero target, regulations for energy efficiency will likely tighten as we drive forward to a decarbonisation of home heating. Hence, it becomes more imperative to consider the benefits of low-carbon heating. Doing so means you can begin to futureproof your home, and with that
can come reduced costs and lower carbon emissions.

James Chaplen is head of product marketing & communications, residential product group at Mitsubishi Electric