Published: Wed, 13 November 2024
Share this
Seán Kelly MEP and Leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament is calling for a robust increase in EU support for heat pumps in order to drive decarbonisation efforts across Europe’s building sector. At a high-level event co-organised with the European Heating Industry this week, the Ireland South MEP highlighted the critical role heat pumps play in reducing emissions, creating jobs, and enhancing energy security.
At the event, Kelly stressed the economic benefits that an increase in demand for heat pumps could bring, not only for individual households but for Europe’s economy as a whole. “The heating industry supports nearly two million jobs across Europe, and this number could grow significantly if we expand the market for heat pumps. This isn’t just about emissions; it’s about securing Europe’s leadership in clean energy technology and creating high-quality jobs.”
“We need to take concrete steps toward decarbonising our buildings, which account for 40 percent of Europe’s energy consumption and 36% of its greenhouse gas emissions. Heat pumps are central to this mission, as they’re up to five times more efficient than gas boilers, lowering costs for consumers and driving down our carbon footprint,” said Kelly, a Member of the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy.
The Fine Gael MEP also drew attention to the public safety benefits of transitioning to electric heating systems: “Reducing reliance on fossil fuels isn’t only about climate change—it’s a direct way to reduce carbon monoxide risks in our homes. Electrification of heating is a life-saving measure as much as it is a climate action.”
The event brought together leading players from the heating and cooling sector, including major manufacturers, and representatives from influential industry associations, highlighting the importance of collaboration across various segments of the market. Additionally, strategic energy bodies like the European Commission, the International Energy Agency, and Eurelectric, the sector association that represents the European electricity industry, underscored the policy-level support for advancing decarbonisation technologies. With stakeholders ranging from technology developers to policy advisors, the event served as a comprehensive platform for shaping the future of energy-efficient heating solutions in Europe.
Kelly acknowledged challenges facing heat pump adoption, such as high upfront costs and a shortage of skilled installers, but is confident these could be overcome: “Improving financing options and expanding training programs are key steps. By increasing access to affordable financing and ensuring we have a workforce trained to install these systems, we can make heat pumps more accessible and appealing to consumers.”
Kelly emphasised that the shift to heat pumps requires EU-wide coordination, from streamlined approval processes to knowledge-sharing on best practices. “Some countries have made significant progress by simplifying approval steps and developing local expertise. Sharing these insights across the EU will help us all move faster in this transition.”
“Europe’s path to decarbonisation must be ambitious, and heat pumps are a critical piece of the puzzle. With the right support, I’m confident we can create a greener, safer, and more competitive Europe,” Kelly concluded.
