SNIPEF has expressed concern over the slow pace of heat pump installations in Scotland, citing recently released Freedom of Information data. Figures from the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan Scheme and the Private Rented Sector (PRS) Landlord Loan Scheme show fewer than 9,000 heat pumps installed since 2019.

"While it is encouraging to see growing numbers of homeowners and landlords making the switch to clean heating solutions, the Scottish Government’s ambition of over one million homes converted to low or zero-emission heat by 2030 is simply not achievable under current conditions," said Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive of SNIPEF. "The data highlights the urgent need for clearer policy direction, greater financial certainty and stronger industry support.”


SNIPEF also raised concerns about the HES scheme's payment structure, which places a financial burden on installers due to substantial upfront costs. "Installers are at the heart of Scotland’s green heating transition, but they need a stable, transparent funding framework to remain viable," said Hodgson.

The organisation also called for addressing the "spark gap," the significant difference between electricity and gas costs, which hinders heat pump adoption.

"Even with various funding schemes, the fundamental cost imbalance between electricity and fossil-fuel heating remains a deterrent for households," Hodgson said. "Closing the spark gap will require close coordination between Westminster and the devolved administrations. Only by working together can we provide the financial incentives and market certainty needed to boost consumer confidence and achieve Scotland’s net-zero targets.”