Campaigners and environmental groups have called for changes to the planning approval process for heat pump installations in the UK, citing significant costs and delays despite high approval rates. According to a recent analysis, consumers spent approximately £8 million on planning applications and sound tests for heat pumps between January 2015 and March 2026, although most applications were approved.
The investigation, which reviewed data from over 14,000 applications across 265 local authorities in England, Scotland, and Wales, found that 83 percent of planning applications for heat pumps were approved. Only 7 percent were refused and 6 percent withdrawn, prompting calls for a reassessment of whether some installations require formal planning permission at all. Heat pumps are generally considered permitted developments for most properties, meaning they do not require planning permission, but restrictions apply in certain cases, such as for listed buildings.
Nesta, an innovation charity involved in the research, described the current planning system as “sludge” — a term referring to costly, complex, and time-consuming administrative barriers that hinder the adoption of clean heating technologies. Nesta representatives Charlie Meyrick and Seth Caldwell highlighted the need for reform to remove unnecessary hurdles and accelerate the transition from fossil fuel-based heating systems.
The government has responded by noting recent changes to planning rules, which now allow more households to install heat pumps without submitting a planning application. Officials also indicated that they are considering further expansions to these exemptions.
Heat pumps have gained popularity as an energy-efficient alternative to traditional gas boilers, with over 100,000 units sold last year. This growth has been supported by policy measures, including new grants of £2,500 for air-to-air heat pump models that provide both heating and cooling. Additionally, changes to tax policy under Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s administration have made electricity-powered heating systems more competitive. The government removed VAT on electricity bills while maintaining a 5 percent VAT on gas bills, potentially making heat pumps more financially attractive for homeowners.
As the UK aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency, the refinement of planning regulations and continued financial incentives are seen as critical factors in encouraging wider consumer adoption of heat pump technology.