24 November 2025
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With heightening demand for manufacturers to support net-zero ambitions, Greg Banham, Commercial Director for Navien UK, explores how they are diversifying their product offering to help accelerate the development of renewables in the industry.
The UK’s heating sector is undergoing its most significant transformation in decades. With renewables and heat pump technology now central to net-zero targets, the government aims to increase heat pump installations significantly as well as expand renewable energy capacity, both are key pathways to reducing emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. From its foundations in boilers, Navien has consistently invested in advanced heating solutions, from its NCB ON range of boilers and now to the launch of the PEM750 heat pump in the UK – the decision has been made to expand into the renewables space with a new strategy and advanced technologies, following its recognition of market demand and policy direction.
The PEM750 heat pump marks Navien’s entry into renewables, addressing installer concerns over installation ease, reliability, and support, while meeting homeowner demands for efficiency, comfort, and savings. Combining design and performance, it reinforces Navien’s decade-long UK commitment to innovation and sustainability. The Monoblock design simplifies setup, and the Navien Heat Pump app enables remote control and diagnostics. Using eco-friendly R290 refrigerant with a GWP of just three, the PEM750 achieves up to 75°C for hot water with superior efficiency, showcasing Navien’s dedication to future-proofed, energy-efficient, and environmentally responsible heating solutions.
Breaking down barriers
Driven by rising energy costs, evolving regulations and a growing number of government-backed incentives; installers and homeowners are feeling the pressure to switch to greener heating solutions. Fortunately, new regulations which came into effect on the 20 May, have made the installation of heat pumps simpler and more flexible than ever before, meaning there has never been a better time for installers and homeowners to take the plunge into a more renewable heating system.
Part of the governments Warm Home Plan, the new regulations remove restrictions such as the ‘one-meter rule’ and allow for larger units, making installations more accessible – particularly in urban areas. Supporting the government’s 2028 target for 600,000 annual installations, they have also abolished planning restrictions and increased funding for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to £295 million committed for 2025/26. This provides a £7,500 grant for eligible homeowners and landlords to help offset the cost of installing a heat pump. These changes remove significant barriers to installation, and by doing so, these measures should boost the transition to low carbon heating and help the UK to meet its ambitious net-zero targets by 2050. By simplifying the installation process, removing regulatory barriers and providing monetary support, this may be the push that the industry needed to accelerate the deployment of heat pumps across the UK.
A transition for Installer’s
While the advancement of heating technologies continues to support the transition to renewable energy, many traditional oil and gas installers are left uncertain about what this shift means for their future. From navigating unfamiliar system designs to adapting installation methods and keeping up with evolving regulations, the transition can seem complex and daunting.
Nonetheless, change is clearly underway. In 2025, the UK was one of only three European markets to see growth in heat pump sales, with a notable 56% increase recorded last year. This signals strong momentum toward an established heat pump market. However, the sector faces a significant workforce challenge. The Heat Pump Association estimates that nearly 40,000 full-time installers will be needed to meet the UK’s deployment targets — yet, as of 2024, only around 9,000 installers had completed the necessary heat pump training qualifications.
To support installers with navigating the transition to renewable heating solutions, Navien has partnered with Ultimate Renewables Supplies, to offer practical training and access to essential resources. The programme focuses on understanding the system design and the installation of the new PEM750 heat pump, with installation kits provided on completion of the training. Ultimate Renewables will also assist installers through their MCS Umbrella scheme and offer ongoing service for the systems they help design – ensuring longterm support.
In addition to the new training scheme, the manufacturer will also be working with air source heat pump specialists from across the UK to ensure that installations of the heat pump are carried out to a high quality from day one of its launch.
The right balance
As a business, it is recognised that the success of renewables lies in the balance between advancing technology and in equipping installers with the tools and knowledge that they need to help accelerate the shift.
The manufacturer is also exploring the possibility of hybrid systems. A lower carbon alternative for home heating, this typically consists of a gas or oil boiler and an air to water heat pump. The heat pump is expected to generate heat for 70-80% of the time and, during colder months, the boiler acts as a top up, giving all year-round comfort. This would be the ideal solution for properties where a standalone heat pump may be unsuitable.
