Making hybrid heat pumps an eligible technology in the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) would result in a 26% decrease in carbon emissions, according to research by Gemserv, commissioned by Baxi.
The paper, ‘Unlocking the power of heat pumps with hybrid installations’, was published on November 28 and includes analysis of the role hybrid systems could play in heat decarbonisation.
According to the analysis, a hybrid installed in an average mid-terraced house can secure approximately 52% lower carbon emissions than a standalone gas boiler, and 72% when compared with oil boilers.
The report says hybrid systems should also be included in the Home Energy Model, which will replace the current Standard Assessment Procedure methodology, and in the Product Characteristics database and the Reduced Data Home Energy Model.
The paper contains four definitions of hybrid heat pumps: an air source heat pump (ASHP) added to an existing gas boiler; an ASHP and new boiler; a new ASHP replacing a boiler; and existing heat generators replaced by one unit containing a condensing combination boiler and small heat pump.
It says a hybrid system could enable consumers to switch to heat pumps without having to make initial upgrades to radiators and fabric, though these would be beneficial over time and save consumers money.
The study estimates a standalone heat pump would cost £9,257, compared with £8,250 for a hybrid system. However, upgrades to radiators and fabric for the heat pump-only solution would add £7,246 to the upfront cost.
