5. RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 When correctly specified and installed, with adequate levels of support provided to allow householders to understand how to use the systems cost-efficiently, heat pump technologies are an effective, cost-efficient way to tackle fuel poverty. In particular, where householders are considering their options under future fuel poverty programmes, they should be offered advice on the comparative benefits of ASHP, including the potential for savings on energy costs over the longer term.
5.2 If ASHP (and possibly GSHP) are to be accepted onto future fuel poverty programmes, they could be offered on an equivalent basis to the current Central Heating Programme's position on oil systems, where householders pay any additional cost above a set cap.
5.3 Where heat pumps are installed under future programmes, meter changes should be scheduled shortly in advance so that householders can take advantage of the savings available through the optimum tariff as soon as possible. There were reports throughout the pilot of households who were not on the optimum tariff. More information on tariffs is provided in the accompanying EST report.
5.4 Where heat pumps are installed, an enhanced level of support and advice on energy efficiency should be provided to householders. In particular this should focus on ensuring that householders understand how to use heat pumps most cost-efficiently. This will mean improved householder manuals (there were a number of complaints about manuals distributed in the pilot) and possibly an 'after-care' service.
5.5 To maximise opportunities to reduce costs and grow the market, consideration should be given to:
- Establishing agreements with local authorities, housing associations and EST to share information on procurement programmes and the prices of renewable systems achieved;
- Setting up a consortium purchasing agreement with other major potential purchasers, such as local authorities or housing associations;
- Convening discussions with accredited ASHP installers with a view to negotiating lower installation and unit costs;
- Reassessing the conclusions of the pilot following any further significant shifts in energy prices. Conclusions may also be reviewed once a stable market for biomass pellet prices is available.