Heat pump maker says ScotGov is ‘No1 barrier’ to homeowners ditching gas-guzzling boilers

Heat pump manufacturer points to Scottish Government as the main obstacle for homeowners moving away from gas-guzzling boilers. Aira, a leading heat pump maker, highlighted issues with the grant and loan scheme in Scotland, describing it as slow and complicated, deterring both buyers and installers. Homeowners are required to fill out a 38-page form to begin the process, which can take up to two months for installers to receive payment after installation. In contrast, England’s scheme pays installers immediately for heat pump fittings.

Scotland offers up to £15,000 in funding, including a £7500 grant and an interest-free loan of up to the same amount, with additional funding for remote and rural areas. Despite the generous incentives to switch from gas boilers to heat pumps, the cumbersome bureaucracy is inhibiting uptake. Nicola Mahmood, Aira’s Scotland chief, emphasized the importance of transitioning to heat pumps to combat climate change, a key component in reducing carbon emissions from home heating.

Mahmood pointed out that the complicated government funding process hinders the speed of customer progress, with installers unable to assist customers through the process. She highlighted the significant delays caused by errors on the lengthy application form, forcing applicants to restart the process. Mahmood stressed the need to streamline the process, particularly by allowing installers to assist customers similar to practices in England.

Robin Parker from Nesta Scotland echoed concerns about the lengthy payment process for installers in Scotland, impacting cash flow and disproportionately affecting smaller businesses. The delayed payments create challenges for smaller firms compared to larger companies. Additionally, some installers are reluctant to work with customers undergoing the grant and loan process due to the extended wait times.

Aira’s expansion in Stirling includes plans for a training academy to educate the next generation of plumbers and heating engineers in heat pump installations. The Scottish Government defended the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme, highlighting its contribution to heat pump installations in Scotland. The updated online application and payment system aims to streamline processes and alleviate cash flow issues for installers.

In conclusion, the challenges faced by homeowners and installers in transitioning to heat pumps underscore the need for a more efficient and streamlined process in Scotland’s funding schemes to accelerate the adoption of eco-friendly heating solutions. The collaboration between industry stakeholders, government entities, and training institutions will be crucial in achieving Scotland’s climate goals and ensuring a sustainable future for residential heating.