Home energy upgrade
Solar Assisted Heat Pump
A solar assisted heat pump combines solar thermal collectors with an electric heat pump to deliver efficient space heating and hot water — with 0% VAT on qualifying installations.
Step by step
How Solar Assisted Heat Pump installation works
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A certified assessor surveys your roof orientation, shading, available outdoor space, and existing hot water system to determine whether a solar assisted configuration is suitable.
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An MCS-certified installer designs the integrated system — sizing the heat pump and solar collectors to work together — and checks BUS eligibility for the heat pump component if applicable.
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Solar thermal collectors are mounted on the roof; the heat pump unit is installed outside; both connect to a compatible twin-coil or dedicated thermal store cylinder.
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The combined system is commissioned and tested to MCS standards; you receive an MCS certificate covering all installed components.
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Your installer provides full handover documentation; if BUS grant support was secured for a qualifying heat pump element, the voucher is redeemed at this stage.
Why it's worth it
Benefits of Solar Assisted Heat Pump
- 0% VAT on supply and installation as a qualifying energy-saving measure
- Greater hot water efficiency — solar collectors pre-heat water, reducing the electricity the heat pump needs
- Lower carbon emissions than a gas or oil boiler, using two renewable energy sources together
- MCS certification required — ensures system design and installation meet recognised quality standards
- May be eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme if the heat pump component meets BUS and MCS qualifying criteria — confirm with your installer
- Qualifies for Home Energy Scotland grant support for eligible Scottish households
What to budget
Typical cost
Typically £8,000–£18,000 installed depending on system size, collector type, and existing cylinder setup
Costs vary significantly depending on property size, existing systems, and installer. A surveyor's assessment will give you an accurate figure. Available grants (listed below) can substantially reduce the net cost.
Is this right for you?
Ideal for
- Homes with a south-facing roof suitable for solar thermal collectors and space for a heat pump unit
- Households with high hot water demand who want to maximise renewable coverage
- Properties replacing oil, LPG, or ageing electric heating looking to combine two low-carbon technologies
- Homeowners who have already considered solar thermal or a heat pump separately and want an integrated solution
Financial support
Grants you may qualify for
0% VAT on Energy-Saving Materials
0% VATSolar panels, heat pumps, insulation, and other qualifying energy-saving measures are zero-rated for VAT — saving 20% on supply and installation costs UK-wide.
Home Energy Scotland Grant & Loan
ScotlandHomeowners in Scotland may qualify for grants and interest-free loans toward heat pumps and other renewable heating systems via Home Energy Scotland.
Ready to go?
Find MCS-certified Solar Assisted Heat Pump installers near you
Compare MCS-certified specialists in your area, check their credentials, and book a free assessment worth £380.
