Back hybrid heating, government urged
Urgent government policy action is needed to support millions of off-grid households facing rising energy costs, say the HHIC and Oftec.
In a letter to Energy Consumers Minister Martin McCluskey, the organisations jointly highlight the ongoing challenges for around 4 million UK homes that are not connected to the mains gas grid and instead rely on heating oil or LPG.
These households are particularly vulnerable during periods of global energy volatility because heating oil and LPG are not covered by the energy price cap. Recent international events have driven sharp increases in fuel costs, leaving many exposed to sudden and significant price rises.
HHIC and Oftec stress that longer-term, structural solutions are needed to reduce exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets, while welcoming the government’s £53 million support package for vulnerable off-grid households.
The organisations are urging ministers to prioritise hybrid heating systems as part of the UK’s wider energy and decarbonisation strategy. These systems combine a traditional oil or LPG boiler with an air source heat pump and smart controls and can deliver up to 80% of a home’s annual heating demand through the heat pump.
They are calling on the government to:
- Include hybrid heating systems within the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
- Provide targeted support for off-grid households
- Adopt a more flexible, technology-inclusive approach to decarbonisation.
The organisations say such measures would not only help cut consumer bills but also reduce the need for costly emergency interventions in future.
In addition to hybrid systems, the letter highlights the role of renewable liquid fuels such as hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), which are less exposed to global fossil fuel price shocks.
HHIC director Stewart Clement said: “Members of both HHIC and Oftec are standing ready to work with government to deliver practical, affordable and low-carbon heating solutions for off-grid homes.
“A balanced approach, combining hybrid systems, renewable fuels and targeted support, will be essential to protect consumers, strengthen energy security and meet the UK’s net zero goals.”
