Barrier removed for islanders wanting heat pumps

Barriers have been removed for islanders who want to install money-saving heat pumps on their homes and other buildings.

The States of Guernsey's Development and Planning Authority (DPA) said people would no longer need planning permission to install air source heat pumps after receiving feedback from renewable energy company Little Green.

The States said it was now easier for people to fit a heat pump or air conditioning unit within the outer area of a house or other building, but rules did apply.

Deputy Neil Inder said "removing barriers" like this supported the economy and the island's pathway to net zero.

He said: "It makes it easier for islanders to install cheaper and more efficient heating.

"We're listening to people to find solutions to problems."

The States said the fitting of a pump or unit is exempt from planning permission if there was only one unit in total, it is not positioned one metre or less from neighbouring property boundary, and it is installed at ground floor level.

There are also restrictions on the size of the unit, and the amount of noise it makes.

Commercial director of Little Green Simon de la Rue said the installation of heat pumps helped islanders heat their homes at a lower cost whilst reducing demand on the electricity grid.

"We'd like to thank the DPA and officers for their consideration of the changes, but most importantly, their action."

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