According to the latest data from the Microgeneration Certifications Scheme (MCS) there were over 60,000 small-scale renewable installations in Q1 this year – the highest performing quarter since Q4 2015.
This includes 8,790 heat pumps deployed in the first quarter of this year – the second highest installation rate in a quarter for heat pumps in the scheme’s history.
Following a record year for heat pump installations in 2022, March 2023 saw 3,176 MCS credited heat pumps installed marking a 10% increase on February 2023.
A total of 449 MCS certified contractors joined the scheme last quarter – the highest figure since Q4 2011.
This means that 2,286 contractors are now certified to install heat pumps, marking a 17% increase on Q1 2022.
“The year has got off to a remarkable start as our robust, near-real-time data demonstrates how we are playing a vital role in domestic decarbonisation,” said Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS.
“We are reassured by the extension to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) until 2028, which aligns with what we hear from our ever-expanding heat pump contractor base. They are ready to invest in and develop their businesses but need the certainty that comes from the comfort of long-term, supportive government policies.
“With heat pump installations and contractor numbers at an all-time high, the BUS remains a critical part of the drive to make home-grown energy more accessible and affordable. Though, there is still more to be done to promote the benefits of the BUS and low-carbon home heating to homeowners in general.”