MPs urge agencies to get a move on in approving air conditioning installation support

PRESS RELEASE FROM ALISTAIR STRATHERN MP

WEDNESDAY 5^th AUGUST 2026

 Over 50 MPs, convened by Alistair Strathern MP, are urging agencies to get a move on and approve a Government-backed scheme which would make air conditioning more affordable for households across the country. 

The Member of Parliament for Hitchin has coordinated an open letter signed by more than 50 MPs from across the UK, calling on the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) to complete the remaining certification and accreditation processes needed to make air-to-air heat pumps fully eligible under the Government's Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero has already approved the inclusion of air-to-air heat pumps within the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. But months later, no one has been able to benefit as the agencies are yet to approve accreditation. 

Once the necessary accreditation processes are completed, eligible households will be able to access grants of up to £2,500 towards installation costs.

The signatories argue that air-to-air heat pumps offer a practical solution to two growing challenges facing households: reducing emissions from home heating and adapting to rising temperatures driven by climate change.

Air-to-air heat pumps are widely used internationally and can provide efficient heating during colder months while also offering cooling during periods of extreme heat, helping households remain comfortable all year round.

Alistair Strathern MP said:

"As temperatures continue to rise and households face the twin challenges of high energy costs and overheating, we need practical solutions that can help people stay comfortable throughout the year."

"Air-to-air heat pumps are a proven technology that can lower emissions, improve energy efficiency and provide much-needed cooling during heatwaves.

"With the Government approving their inclusion months back, we need these agencies to get a move one. The latest summer heatwave is a peril reminder that we haven't got a moment to lose in supporting households adapt to climate change and cut emissions.  

"This is about helping families cut bills, making our homes more resilient to a changing climate, and expanding access to technologies that support the UK's transition to clean energy."

The letter welcomes progress already made by Government, MCS and industry stakeholders, while urging the accreditation bodies to move at pace so that grants can begin reaching households without unnecessary delay.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Alistair Strathern MP coordinated an open letter to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) regarding the implementation of air-to-air heat pumps within the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

The letter was signed by more than 50 MPs from across the UK.