As the world seeks sustainable and energy-efficient solutions for heating and cooling, the heat pump market is experiencing a significant surge. According to the EIA, close to 18 million households across the United States used heat pumps for space heating in 2020, indicating a nearly 50% increase over 2015.
Governments and regulatory bodies around the globe are implementing initiatives to promote the adoption of heat pumps, recognizing their potential to not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance energy efficiency but also to secure energy reserves. Heat pumps offer a highly efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems, harnessing renewable energy sources such as air, water, and geothermal heat. As per a research report from Global Market Insights Inc., global heat pump market size is projected to cross USD 165 billion by 2032.
Enlisted below are 6 key global initiatives that are driving the heat pump industry forward, revolutionizing the world of space heating in homes, offices, and industries.
Energy Efficiency Standards & Regulations – UK Government’s Heat Pump Ready Program
Governments are implementing energy efficiency standards and initiatives that prioritize the use of energy-efficient technologies like heat pumps. Several of these efforts are focused on phasing out or replacing older, fossil fuel-based heating technologies with more efficient low-carbon systems.
For instance, in September 2022, the UK government issued funding worth over USD 16 million in support of the nation’s goal to make the shift away from fossil fuels. This was part of the USD 64 million Heat Pump Ready program, which is focused on the development of innovative solutions to mitigate barriers to the deployment of low-carbon heating technologies in UK homes and businesses.
Additionally, the UK government has introduced its USD 485 million Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which offers grants worth over USD 5300 to homeowners towards the price of heat pumps, as well as a zero VAT rate for the installment of clean heating systems, making the replacement of gas or oil boilers more affordable.
Such initiatives are encouraging the phased-out replacement of inefficient heating and cooling systems, and in turn, driving the demand for heat pumps, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Financial Incentives & Subsidies – Canada’s Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Rebate Scheme
Governments worldwide are also offering financial incentives and subsidies to promote the installation of heat pump systems. These incentives range from tax credits and rebates to grants and low-interest loans, making heat pumps more accessible and affordable for residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. These incentives are proving to be especially beneficial for the residential heat pump industry, which recorded revenue worth over USD 35 billion in 2022 and is expected to surpass USD 121.9 billion by 2032, as per Global Market Insights Inc.
Canada, in November 2022, announced such financial support via its Oil to Heat Pump Affordability (OHPA) rebate scheme. Through this scheme, the government endeavored to provide low- and middle-income households across Canada to apply for upfront payments of more than USD 7,413 for the purchase and installation of new, air-source, electric cold climate heat pumps. This financing scheme also included close to USD 3755 from the CGHG (Canada Greener Homes Grant).
By easing their financial burden, governments are incentivizing the adoption of heat pumps among residences and households worldwide, accelerating market growth over the coming years.
Industrial Heating Emission Reduction Initiatives – Horizon Europe-funded SPIRIT Project
The Europe heat pump market is set to hit USD 78 billion valuation by 2032. The introduction of carbon pricing mechanisms and ambitious emission reduction targets are also fueling the development of advanced heating systems. These initiatives are encouraging industries and consumers to transition to low-carbon alternatives like heat pumps. Industrial heating poses distinct challenges owing to the elevated temperatures requisite in numerous sectors.
The SPIRIT project, backed by the European Union’s Horizon Europe project, commenced in September 2022, and was designed specifically to tackle this obstacle head-on. The project’s focal point revolves around the comprehensive demonstration of three high-temperature industrial heat pump technologies (ranging from 0.7 MW to 4 MW) within the food and paper industry across Norway, Belgium, and the Czech Republic. Its objectives are twofold: to explore avenues for enhancing the technical and economic performance of these technologies and to exhibit the utilization of waste heat for steam production, substantiating the heat pump’s ability to deliver three times the heat it consumes in energy.
Also, as part of this endeavor, the consortium of 17 project partners was aiming to improve awareness regarding the advantages and impediments associated with upgrading heat technology within the industrial sector, thereby fostering an environment conducive to reducing energy costs and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.
Focusing on the advancement of heating solutions powered by waste heat has amplified the use of energy-efficient and low-emission technologies, driving the demand for heat pumps.
Building Codes & Standards: California’s 1st Building Code for Heat Pumps as a Baseline Technology
Another factor influencing heat pump market dynamics include the introduction of novel building codes and standards to prioritize energy efficiency and sustainable building practices. These codes often require the use of energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, creating a favorable environment for heat pump adoption.
In August 2021, the California Energy Commission voted in favor of endorsing a new building code in the United States, the first of its kind to incorporate efficient electric heat pumps as a baseline heating technology. This development marks the latest stride taken by the state of California to shift new residential and commercial constructions away from fossil fuels such as gas, in favor of electric appliances that operate exclusively on 100% clean energy.
Upon its implementation in January 2023, the new code mandated that the majority of newly constructed homes and buildings throughout the state must either be equipped with a highly efficient heat pump for space heating or water heating or conform to more stringent energy efficiency standards. This progressive measure will yield substantial environmental benefits, both in terms of climate change mitigation and improved air quality. By incorporating heat pumps into building regulations, regulatory authorities across the globe are shaping the future of the market and driving its growth.
Research & Development Funding – Ideal Heating’s New Proposal for $12.5 Mn Heat Pump R&D Center in Hull
Many major entities are investing significant amounts in research and development to advance heat pump technology. These investments are focused mainly on enhancing the efficiency, performance, and affordability of heat pump systems. As per estimates from Global Market Insights Inc, the air source heat pumps market is one of the main focal points for such endeavors, and as such, is likely to exhibit more than 13% CAGR through 2032.
In April 2023, British heating specialist, Ideal Heating, submitted comprehensive plans to the city council in Hull, England, outlining their proposal for a state-of-the-art research and development facility worth approximately USD 13.7 million at their UK headquarters. This proposed facility, named the UK Technology Center, will serve as the epicenter for the development and rigorous testing of low-carbon heating solutions, with a primary focus on pioneering air-source heat pumps. The outcomes of this research are anticipated to fuel the advancement of novel heat pump solutions at the firm’s manufacturing facility in Hull.
Additionally, Heat Transformers, a leading Dutch heat pump installer, secured approximately USD 19.7 million through a successful Series A funding round. This substantial injection of funds will fortify the company’s expansion efforts in the Netherlands, Germany, and the United Kingdom, bolstering its position as a prominent player in the dynamic heat pump industry.
By fostering innovation, Ideal Heating, Heat Transformers, and many other similar companies are driving advancements in heating technologies and stimulating heat pump market expansion over the forecast spell.
International Agreements & Commitments: Multi-Government Commitments For Net Zero Emissions
Global agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, commit countries to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As part of these commitments, governments are actively promoting sustainable heating and cooling solutions like heat pumps.
In June 2023, forty-five governments from diverse regions including Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe endorsed the ambitious objective of doubling the average global rate of energy efficiency enhancements by the close of this decade. This unified commitment serves as a pivotal catalyst in fostering sustainable economic growth while simultaneously charting a steadfast course towards achieving the ultimate goal of net zero emissions, which is imperative for a secure and affordable future.
This shared vision has the potential to propel annual energy efficiency progress from its current level of 2.2% to over 4% per annum by 2030. The endeavor is also touted as a promising solution for reducing energy expenditure, curbing air pollution, and diminishing nations’ reliance on fossil fuel imports, thereby yielding a multitude of social and economic benefits. International collaborations and initiatives further encourage knowledge-sharing and best practices, driving the adoption of heat pumps worldwide.
The future of the heat pump market looks promising, thanks to the implementation of global regulatory and government initiatives. As governments worldwide prioritize sustainability and climate action, heat pumps will continue to play a pivotal role in revolutionizing the heating and cooling industry, paving the way for a greener and more energy-efficient future.
