UK June Temperature Record Set as Air-Conditioning Heat Pumps Gain Subsidy Eligibility

Temperatures across the UK reached a new June high of 37.7C, beating the previous record from 1976. GB News reported the figure as part of coverage on summer heat and energy policy. Late last year the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero announced that heat pumps with air conditioning would become eligible for state subsidies.

The grant for air-to-air systems was set at £2,500, compared with £7,500 for air-to-water systems and £9,500 when replacing heating oil or LNG systems. On April 24 the department stated that a Statutory Instrument had been laid on April 1 to amend Boiler Upgrade Scheme regulations, with the changes due to take effect on April 28.

The same statement required all participating installers to hold Microgeneration Certification Scheme accreditation, while noting that such certification is not yet available for air-to-air heat pump systems.

GB News reported that Labour has increased the certification standards required for air-to-air systems, leaving many installers currently ineligible. Official figures obtained by Facts4EU show applications received and grants made for the systems. Ed Miliband is the current UK energy secretary.

Lord Redwood, a former Conservative Cabinet Minister, said the policy seeks to stop people acquiring air conditioning and described it as a net zero approach that favors opening windows over cooling systems. He noted that five per cent of UK households have air conditioning. Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan’s Plan for London states that the increased use of air conditioning systems is not desirable.

The Government has been approached for comment.