Are Industry Associations Still Relevant? A Deep Dive with the Heat Pump Association

In this insightful episode, host Nathan sits down with two key figures from the Heat Pump Association (HPA) – CEO Charlotte Lea and Chair Craig Dolan – to explore the role the HPA plays in the evolving UK heating landscape. They delve into the value the association brings to the industry, particularly as the nation transitions towards low-carbon heating solutions.

The conversation tackles the fundamental question of whether industry associations are still necessary in today's rapidly changing world. Charlotte and Craig passionately argue for their continued relevance, highlighting their crucial function in providing a unified voice for the heat pump sector and driving positive change.

A potentially contentious area is explored as Nathan raises the issue of potential conflicts of interest arising from HPA membership that may include companies also affiliated with the boiler industry and their strong advocacy for hydrogen boilers through the Heating and Hot water Council (HHIC). This leads to a nuanced discussion about navigating diverse interests within the broader heating industry.

Nathan expresses his support for the HPA's proactive new strategy focused on amplifying the voices of heat pump installers – the boots on the ground who are essential to the successful rollout of this technology.

The guests showcase the tangible benefits of HPA membership by highlighting the development and release of valuable industry resources, such as the new Residual Current Device (RCD) guidance and comprehensive heat pump system commissioning documents. 

The conversation then shifts to the complexities of the UK heating controls industry. Nathan and his guests discuss whether the competitive nature of the market might inadvertently hinder the adoption of common engineering sense and best practices in the design of energy-efficient heating systems.

Finally, Charlotte and Craig shed light on the significant policy work undertaken by the HPA, including their collaborative efforts with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). They explain how the association actively engages with policymakers to shape regulations and support the widespread adoption of heat pump technology in the UK.

Key Discussion Points:

• The core value proposition of the Heat Pump Association in the UK heating industry.
• The ongoing relevance and necessity of industry associations in the current climate.
• Navigating potential conflicts of interest with members also involved in the boiler/hydrogen fuel debate via the HHIC.
• The HPA's new focus on empowering and promoting the voice of heat pump installers.
• The importance and impact of HPA-produced technical documents, such as the new RCD guidance and commissioning documents.
• The challenges and opportunities within the UK heating controls industry and the potential impact of competition on best practices.
• The HPA's crucial policy work and collaboration with the Energy department.