- Scotland is on track for a record year in heat pump installations, with over 5,000 installed so far, a 34% increase from 2023.
- Government incentives like the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant & Loan are helping more homeowners switch to low-carbon heating.
- In 2024, Scotland completed over 23,000 renewable energy installations, with 9% of households now having MCS-certified renewable systems.
Heat pumps are taking flight in Scotland, with a 34% increase in installations and eyes on a new record
Scotland is working towards a heat pump installations record this year. According to the MCS, over 5,000 certified heat pumps have been installed so far in 2024. This marks a 34% increase compared to the same period in 2023. If the trend continues, 2024 will be a milestone year for Scotland’s shift to low-carbon heating.
More homeowners are making the switch thanks to government support
The Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant & Loan offers £7,500 for installing a heat pump, with rural households eligible for up to £9,000. These incentives have made green energy more affordable for many.
Na h-Eileanan Siar leads the way in installations, with 1 in 5 homes having a certified heat pump. The Orkney Islands follow with 14.71%, and Argyll and Bute comes in third with 8.81%.
Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, celebrated the news:
“Our data shows that a growing number of homeowners across Scotland are investing in heat pumps which are one of the most efficient and sustainable heating solutions for homes and are a vital part of Scotland’s plans to reach Net Zero by 2045.
Government incentives, such as the HES Grant and Loan, make the switch to greener and cleaner energy more accessible and affordable, whilst ensuring the quality of their renewable installation. These results from MCS show that with the right grant support and regulation, people can have the certainty they need to make the switch to cleaner, greener forms of heating.”
Overall, Scotland has completed more than 23,000 renewable energy installations in 2024. That includes heat pumps, solar panels, and battery storage. As of now, 9% of Scottish households have an MCS-certified renewable system.
