Green Party co-leader Carla Denyer has admitted she still uses a gas boiler, despite her party’s strong stance on cutting carbon emissions and transitioning to low-carbon heating.

Speaking to ITV, Denyer said she’s “in the process of getting quotes” for an air source heat pump but has paused the plan during the general election campaign.

Her party’s manifesto calls for:

• A £9 billion investment in heat pumps and other low-carbon heating systems.

• Requirements for all new homes to be built with systems like heat pumps “where appropriate”.

• A target for the UK to reach net zero emissions by 2040.

However, Denyer’s own delay has raised questions about cost, practicality, and confidence in the technology.

Why It Matters for Landlords

While political support for heat pumps remains strong, adoption is still low—and even high-profile supporters are pausing upgrades. Key concerns for landlords include:

• Cost: Installation typically runs £10,000–£15,000, versus £2,000–£4,000 for a gas boiler.

• Performance: Heat pumps can struggle in older or poorly insulated properties.

• Noise and disruption: Especially relevant in HMOs and flats with shared spaces.

Heat Pump Adoption – Still Lagging

• Only ~40,000 certified units were installed in 2023—well below government targets.

• £173 million in available grants under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme went unclaimed.

• A Climate Change Committee report found heat pumps cost ~10% more to run than gas boilers on average.

Labour Policy Shift

Labour has said it will scrap the 2035 gas boiler ban and instead focus on financial incentives for upgrades. Shadow Energy Secretary Ed Miliband recently confirmed:

“No one will be forced to rip out their boiler.”

This offers welcome breathing room for landlords unsure about investing in costly upgrades while energy policy continues to shift.

Bottom Line for Landlords

• Wait for clarity on EPC and MEES regulations before committing to heat pumps.

• Track grant funding like the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme—though uptake remains low, it’s still live.

• Focus on insulation first: It improves EPC ratings and helps futureproof for any heating system.

Even passionate advocates like Denyer are taking their time—and so should landlords.