Why Gas Boilers Are Being Phased Out in New Homes
The plumbing and heating industry is on the brink of a significant transformation, as we have been warning for some time. Last week, it was reported by the Independent that gas boilers are likely to be banned in most new build homes by 2027, as part of efforts to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions. This follows the recent closure of the country’s last coal power plant just a few months ago.
Gas boilers to be phased out in new builds
The government is said to be accelerating the implementation of the Future Homes and Building Standard, which will require developers to fit new build homes with heat pumps or other non-gas alternatives. According to sources cited by the Financial Times, the new Labour government intends to publish its final guidance on phasing out gas boilers by May next year.
What About Hybrid or Hydrogen Heating Systems?
Many installers may have anticipated a straightforward shift to hydrogen boilers. However, hybrid and hydrogen-ready systems, while often promoted as viable options for lowering carbon emissions, will not comply with the Future Homes and Building Standards. These new regulations mandate that all new homes and non-domestic buildings be designed as 'zero-carbon ready,' capable of operating entirely on electricity or other renewable energy sources.
This comes as no surprise to us. We’ve consistently highlighted that using hydrogen to heat homes is a less efficient way to utilise electricity compared to storing it in a battery and using a heat pump for heating. You can explore more about our perspective on hydrogen here.
Air source heat pump installation
What This Means for Plumbers
Each year, approximately 200,000 new homes are built in the UK, with the majority currently being fitted with gas boilers. As gas boilers are phased out, heat pumps are expected to become the main replacement—particularly for new homes. For plumbers who are accustomed to installing gas boilers, the plan to replace approximately 200,000 of them with heat pumps should serve as a wake-up call.
With demand for heat pump installations set to soar, plumbers trained in air and ground source heat pumps have a lucrative opportunity ahead. Gaining the skills to install and maintain heat pumps will not only future-proof your business but also position you to take advantage of a rapidly growing market.
Get Started with Free Heat Pump Installation Training
Heat pump training course
At Alto Energy, we provide an introductory heat pump training course designed for plumbers and heating installers looking to break into the rapidly growing heat pump market. Our courses combine hands-on experience with various heat pump products and in-depth knowledge of the installation process. For your convenience, we also offer online courses that can be completed from the comfort of your home.
MCS Umbrella Scheme
If you want to install MCS accredited heat pumps and help your customers access funding like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, our Alto Assured MCS Umbrella Scheme is the perfect solution. We’ll handle all the MCS paperwork and compliance for you, and our expert team will also design, supply, and commission the system, so you can focus entirely on the installation.