Analysts fear that the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme may not be sufficient to address the country’s ongoing energy crisis.
The increase in the energy price cap, which took effect last month, is estimated to raise the average annual household bill by £693.
In response to the escalating crisis, the government has undertaken a number of programs to help ordinary people. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme, for instance, will allow homes to save up to £6,000 on the purchase of a heat pump.
As part of the £450 million scheme, the government would provide £5,000 subsidies for air-source heat pumps and £6,000 payments for ground-source heat pumps in households.
This latest display of solidarity is expected to impact almost 90,000 homes across the country.
According to the Committee on Climate Change, heating our homes is responsible for about 14% of the UK’s carbon emissions (CCC).
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is meant to be an environmentally responsible answer to the cost of living crisis, as well as to decrease the pressures placed on family energy bills.
Many experts, however, are warning that the financial help provided as part of the program will be insufficient.
According to Myles Robinson of Boiler Central, the true cost of putting heat pumps in your home is likely to be considerably over £6,000.
Mr Robinson noted that the expenses are enormous, and that they can skyrocket if some components of the present heating system, such as radiators, emitters, or piping, are incompatible with the heat pump system.
“Ground source heat pump installation costs can add up to an eye watering £35,000, of which the Government can slash £6,000 off through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
“Compared to a £2,000 hydrogen-ready boiler and even £7,000 for an air source heat pump, this is clearly out of most people’s reach.”
Mr Robinson also mentioned how different properties are likely to have varying levels of suitability when it comes to implementing the Boiler Upgrade Scheme’s help.
He added: “Assuming you have the funds, do not expect that you are in the clear. Unfortunately, not every home is suitable for heat pump installation.
“If you live in a flat above ground level, for example, you obviously have nowhere to dig a hole for the ground source heat pump.
“Nor is it worth bothering to get planning permission for an air source heat pump that will last you less than a boiler, which you will need anyway for when it is cold outside and the pump struggles to extract heat.
“Let’s say you have enough funds, you have the space and the planning permissions for either heat pump and you are committed to lowering your carbon footprint.”
Despite the environmental benefits of heat pump installation, the expert expressed concern that the policy will do little to help those already struggling with high energy bills.
Mr Robinson added: “The reality is that most homeowners are looking for immediate solutions to cutting their gas bills because of the cost-of-living crisis.