Heat Pumps Outperform Fossil Fuel Systems in Cold Weather, Study Reveals

Heat pumps are more than twice as efficient as fossil fuel heating systems in cold temperatures, according to research from Oxford University and the Regulatory Assistance Project. The study found that even at temperatures approaching -30C, heat pumps outperform oil and gas heating systems. Despite their increasing use in cold climates like Scandinavia, the UK has lagged behind in adopting heat pumps due to doubts about their efficacy in low temperatures. The research, based on seven field studies, concluded that heat pumps are suitable for almost all homes in Europe, including the UK, and policymakers should implement measures to roll them out rapidly. Lobbyists associated with the gas boiler sector have attempted to delay government measures to increase heat pump uptake. The UK government is currently consulting on proposals for incentives to encourage households to adopt heat pumps.