The infographic outlines the types of support available from manufacturers, distributors, training providers and installation businesses, as well as feedback from respondents on the effectiveness of current support and plans for future initiatives.
This follows the recent government announcement of an additional £5 million in funding to extend the Heat Training Grant until March 2026, which will support training for a further 5,500 heat pump installers and 3,500 heat network professionals. With over 10,650 individuals already trained through the scheme in the first 2 years, this continued investment represents a vital step in growing the workforce needed to deliver the UK’s low-carbon heating targets.
To maximise the impact of this investment, it is key that those completing training are supported in applying their skills in real-world settings. In 2024, a record 9,062 individuals successfully completed a recognised heat pump qualification. However, HPA modelling suggests that up to 39% of those who complete the training do not always go on to actively install heat pumps immediately.
Whilst gaining a qualification is an important first step, further support is essential to help new installers build confidence, gain practical experience, and maintain high standards of heat pump installation when working in UK homes and businesses.
This infographic offers a high-level view of the types of support currently in place across the sector - aiming to help inform ongoing conversations about how to build a strong heat pump workforce.
The survey, with responses HPA member organisations, found that:
Nearly 80% of respondents currently provide additional support for installers who have recently completed a recognised training course, with over 60% of offerings available at no extra cost.
The most popular types of support include in-person mentoring, digital support via an app and enhanced training packages which may include sales and customer engagement guidance, service and maintenance training, or a quality check and review of installations.
Additionally, many organisations recognised the need for further investment - 50% of respondents indicated they have plans to expand their support offerings in the future.
Commenting on the release, Laura Thomas, Chair of the HPA Training Working Group said: 'It is vital that we have a skilled and confident workforce to deliver the growth in heat pump deployment needed to reach the Government’s carbon reduction targets. The results from this survey highlight the steps being taken by the sector to support newly qualified installers beyond gaining a qualification. However, we recognise that challenges remain, and as an industry we must continue to work together to expand and improve the support available, ensuring more installers can transition from completing a qualification to actively installing heat pumps.'
The HPA will continue to work with industry and stakeholders to explore ways to strengthen support for newly qualified installers and address the barriers they face.
View the infographic here