The report, ‘In-Situ Heat Pump Performance – Analysis of Ofgem Data 2017–2022’ was funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC), and the Ground Source Heat Pump Association (GSHPA).
Assessing data from over 1,700 heat pump installations monitored between 2017 and 2022, the report revealed that both ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) and air source heat pumps (ASHPs) deliver substantial efficiency gains over traditional gas and oil boilers, with GSHPs offering even greater long-term performance advantages.
Key findings of the report
Heat pumps outperform gas and oil boilers: Both GSHPs and ASHPs achieved seasonal performance factors (SPFs) well above fossil fuel heating systems, which typically operate with an efficiency of around 0.9 to 0.95
GSHPs deliver superior long-term efficiency: GSHPs achieved an average SPF of 3.24, rising to 3.31 for the most recent installations in 2022
Strong performance from ASHPs: ASHPs also delivered significant energy savings, achieving an average SPF of 2.65, with nearly 30% of systems performing at SPF 3.0 or higher
Investment in GSHPs pays dividends: One in three GSHPs achieved an SPF of 3.5 or higher, underscoring their reliability and long-term value for consumers.
According to the GSHPA, the study highlights that heat pumps, both ground and air source, are essential for achieving the UK’s Net Zero ambitions. GSHPs, while requiring higher initial capital investment, deliver superior long-term efficiency, ensuring lower operating costs and faster payback periods for consumers.
At the same time, ASHPs remain a widely accessible and effective solution for reducing carbon emissions and energy bills.
‘Impressive efficiency gains’
Ken Gordon, GSHPA CEO, said: “This research demonstrates that heat pumps are an exceptional alternative to fossil fuel heating. Both ground and air source systems provide impressive efficiency gains, but the additional upfront investment in GSHPs pays off through significantly higher long-term performance and cost savings.
With the right support, heat pumps can drive the energy transition and help consumers cut bills and carbon.”
The In-Situ Heat Pump Performance report is referenced in another DESNZ-funded project released today by the Energy Systems Catapult.
The Electrification of Heat Demonstration Project saw four different types of heat pumps retrofitted into 742 homes in a bid to understand the constraints of a mass rollout.
It found that the majority of pumps performed well, with efficiencies comparable to three times that of modern gas boilers. Satisfaction wise, 85% of those who took part said they would recommend a heat pump to their friends and family.
Image credit: iStock/aprott