Over the past year, Jersey has seen a real surge in interest and installations of this cleaner, smarter way to heat our homes. Jersey Electricity alone has seen heat pump sales increase fivefold. So what’s behind this big jump, and what does it mean for Island households?
A major shift this year has been confidence. Many Islanders once assumed heat pumps suited only new build homes or required major changes like ripping out radiators. But that simply isn’t the case anymore.
Modern heat pumps are designed to work in the types of homes most of us already live in, including those currently heated by oil and gas. And in many cases, installers can connect a heat pump to your existing radiators with minimal fuss. It’s no longer a big renovation project, it’s just a heating upgrade. And one that now offers the lowest running costs of any heating fuel available in Jersey.
Better technology, less disruption
Another reason for the increase is the improvement in heat pump technology. Today’s systems are more efficient, quieter and better at keeping homes comfortably warm throughout the day.
Importantly, heat pump technology has rapidly evolved, meaning fewer changes to your existing heating system. They operate well with your current radiators and heating setup. And with growing local experience in design and installation, choosing a heat pump has become a much smoother, more predictable process for homeowners.
Government support is making a real difference
The Government of Jersey’s Low Carbon Heating Incentive has also played a big role, supporting over 100 heat pump installations since it launched. The scheme became even more attractive in January 2025, with the government incentive increasing to £9,000, a change that clearly encouraged more households to take the next step.
Government funded public events and a well-attended heat pump masterclass for trades have further helped to raise awareness and answer questions. As a result, more people understand that switching to a heat pump is both achievable and affordable.
Local heating engineers in the Contractor Quality Scheme (CQS) report that their books are full of heat pump enquiries. That’s hugely encouraging, though it does bring the challenge of managing demand, especially because most people only think about their heating when it stops working.
The installation community is working hard to scale up, ensuring customers can be seen in a reasonable timeframe. More businesses are investing in training and partnerships across the industry are helping to keep things progressing at pace.
The strongest influence? Your neighbours
While grants and technology matter, the most powerful driver may be something simpler: word of mouth.
Islanders who’ve switched to a heat pump are talking about warmer homes, lower bills and the reassurance of owning a system that’s ready for the future. Heat pumps typically deliver efficiencies of 300–500%, meaning they use far less energy to keep your home warm. That makes them one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from high heating bills.
Peter from Grouville
Peter wanted to switch from an oil fired heating system to something more environmentally friendly. The installation of his heat pump was very efficient and it works with the existing radiators and heating system. Peter describes his new heating system as quieter than his previous oil system, while the house is warm and cosy. Outside, the heat pump itself is discreet.
Julie from Grouville
Julie’s 10 year old daughter had strong views on her family switching from oil to sustainable heating. Despite Julie’s concerns that an air source heat pump wouldn’t work in her granite cottage, she discovered the technology has progressed and would work with very few modifications in her home. The heat pump has been ‘life changing’ in making the house a much more pleasant place to be all year round. Julie was also really surprised by the impact the air source heat pump has had on heating costs which have halved.
So what’s next?
Skills development is a major priority. Initiatives such as the newly announced Green Skills Academy – a JE partnership with Highlands College - are an important step towards making sure Jersey has enough trained installers to meet growing demand.
Jersey Electricity is also exploring new ways to support trade partners, helping ensure the entire installation process, from design to switch-on and beyond, can keep pace with customer interest.
All signs point toward another strong year ahead. More Islanders than ever are choosing heat pumps, and the shift is clearly gathering pace.
