The latest news from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) highlights significant progress in the UK regarding the installation of solar panels and heat pumps. The UK has seen a record number of installations, with 2023 marking the first year where monthly installations of solar panels averaged over 20,000 and more than 3,000 heat pumps were installed in a single month. This surge is attributed to increased government incentives and growing consumer awareness of renewable energy benefits.
In total, the UK registered over 220,000 solar panel and heat pump installations in 2023, surpassing previous records. Solar panels accounted for nearly 190,000 of these installations, the highest number since the reduction of the Feed-in Tariff in 2011. Heat pump installations also saw a remarkable increase, driven by enhanced government grants under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which raised the grant for air-source heat pumps from £5,000 to £7,500.
Despite these positive trends, the UK still has a way to go to meet its ambitious targets. The current installation rate needs to accelerate to achieve the government’s goal of 600,000 heat pump installations annually by 2028. The MCS and other industry experts are calling for additional policy support, such as reducing electricity costs and mandating renewable energy installations in new homes from 2025.