Currently, the scheme primarily focuses on air source heat pumps (ASHPs), but NIBE argues that exhaust air heat pumps (EAHPs) should also be considered, especially for urban properties such as flats and apartments.
Paul Smith, managing director of NIBE, highlighted the importance of diversifying heat pump technologies to meet the UK’s decarbonisation targets: “ASHPs are undoubtedly a great solution for many properties, but not the answer for all. For densely populated urban locations, we need to consider some alternative options. Exhaust air heat pumps (EAHPs) should also be included under BUS.”
Awareness remains low
Smith noted that while EAHPs are widely used across Europe, particularly in Sweden, their awareness in the UK remains low. He believes EAHPs are particularly suited to urban environments and buildings with limited outdoor space, as they don’t require external units.
He added: “With EAHPs well-suited to environments with the highest populations, they have the potential to make a big difference. We see EAHPs as being extremely important to the UK’s decarbonisation aims and I call on the powers that be to review BUS and make it more inclusive and accessible to a wider number of people.”
NIBE’s call for a broader approach comes at a time when heat pump installations remain well below the levels needed to meet government targets, despite market growth.
Smith believes a more inclusive strategy that offers financial incentives for a variety of heat pump technologies could help drive adoption across the country.