The push to net zero is reshaping heating
The UK has committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. That’s not just a headline; it’s driving real change in how homes and buildings are heated.
Gas boilers, long the go-to, are being phased out in favour of low-carbon alternatives. Heat pumps sit right at the centre of that transition.
For contractors, that means one thing: demand is shifting. Customers, developers, and housing providers are all being nudged—if not required—to move away from traditional systems. Being ready for that shift puts you in a strong position to win work that’s only going to increase.
The Future Homes Standard: what it means for contractors
This shift isn’t just being driven by demand. It’s being locked in through regulation.
The Future Homes Standard, due to come into effect through updates to Part L of the Building Regulations, will require new homes to produce around 75% lower carbon emissions compared to 2013 standards.
In practice, that changes how homes are built, and more importantly, how they’re heated.
What this means for new-build projects
From 2028, new homes won’t be allowed to use fossil fuels for heating and hot water.
Instead, low-carbon systems become the default, including:
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) as the primary heating solution Delivering around 3–4 units of heat for every unit of electricity used, they offer a practical and efficient alternative to gas systems
Solar PV built into the design Typically covering around 40% of roof space relative to ground floor area, helping offset electrical demand and support heating systems
What this means for you
This isn’t a future trend to keep an eye on. It’s a shift that’s already influencing specifications today.
Developers and consultants are designing around these requirements now, not waiting until the deadline.
That means:
Heat pumps are becoming standard across new builds
Greater demand for contractors who understand low-carbon systems
More projects requiring a joined-up approach to energy across the whole property
For contractors, it’s a clear signal. The work is moving in this direction, and the earlier you’re ready for it, the better positioned you’ll be to take advantage.
600,000 installations a year—that’s the target
The government’s ambition is clear: 600,000 heat pump installations every year by 2028.
That’s a huge jump from current levels, and it won’t happen without a major increase in trained installers and contractors on the ground.
This isn’t a niche market anymore. It’s scaling fast, and with that comes consistent, long-term work. For contractors willing to upskill or expand their services, it’s a pipeline of opportunity rather than a one-off spike.
Social housing retrofit is driving volume
One of the biggest growth areas right now is social housing retrofit programmes.
Local authorities and housing associations are under pressure to improve energy efficiency across their properties. Heat pumps are a key part of that solution, especially in off-gas areas or where upgrading existing systems is essential.
These projects tend to be large-scale, repeatable, and planned over multiple phases, ideal for contractors looking for steady, ongoing work rather than stop-start jobs.
Already in solar or EV? You’re closer than you think
If you’re already working in solar PV, EV charging, or battery storage, you’ve got a head start. The skillsets overlap more than you might expect:
Understanding of electrical systems
Experience with renewable technologies
Familiarity with energy efficiency conversations with customers
Heat pumps are a natural extension. More customers are looking at whole-home energy solutions—solar, storage, EV, and heating working together. Being able to offer that joined-up approach makes you more valuable and puts you ahead of competitors who can’t.
The right supply partner makes the difference
Getting into heat pumps isn’t just about the install; it’s about having the right support behind you.
From product availability and system design advice to training and after-sales support, your supply partner plays a big role in how smoothly you can take on this work.
That’s where working with a partner like CEF makes a difference. With access to leading heat pump brands, in-branch expertise, and support that understands the realities of the job, you’re not figuring it out alone; you’ve got backup when you need it.
Whether it’s supporting your first install or helping you scale up into larger projects, having the right partner helps you get it right the first time and keeps your jobs moving.
So, why now?
Because everything is lining up:
Policy is pushing the change
Demand is building across multiple sectors
Skills are in short supply
And early movers are already gaining ground
This isn’t just another product line; it’s a shift in how homes and buildings are heated across the UK.
For contractors, that creates a clear opportunity. The question isn’t whether heat pumps will grow, it’s whether you’re able to take advantage of it.
You don’t need to switch everything overnight. It’s about getting familiar, getting trained, and starting to take on heat pump work now; so, you’re ahead of the curve, not chasing it later.
There are also growing opportunities to get involved in larger programmes, from social housing retrofit projects to trusted installer networks supporting nationwide rollouts.
If you’re already thinking about it, you’re on the right track. And when you’re ready to take the next step, CEF’s here to help you make it happen.