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The critical role of copper in heat pump rollout and the next era of UK housing


Andrew Surtees, co-founder, Copper Sustainability Partnership (CuSP) explains why he believes copper pipe’s thermal conductivity and durability under pressure make it a natural choice to be used for heat pump systems and is therefore crucial to the heat pump rollout


T


he UK government has reached a pivotal point regarding its commitment to sustainability as the country edges closer to the target of a Net


Zero future by 2050. As part of this commitment, homes across the


country are set to benefi t from several government strategies to enhance domestic energy effi ciency, cut energy bills and upgrade their heating facilities. Outlined in the Warm Homes Plan, the


government is showcasing their ambition to entirely rethink how the sector approaches heating homes, with a core objective to upgrade three million properties by December 2030. To achieve this objective of decarbonising domestic heating nationwide, low-carbon technologies such as heat pumps are rapidly becoming central to both new-build and retrofi t housing strategies. However, alongside this transition, there must be greater engagement with industry leaders on how best to integrate sustainable building measures, such as copper, into these systems to ensure the delivery of a truly green and dependable service.


Keeping copper at the heart of sustainability strategies


Government mandates don’t guarantee success on their own and a greater understanding at a sector level of the materials used to underpin these systems is essential. Copper, in particular, should remain central to any sustainable heating strategy. The case for copper is compelling for both new build housing and retrofi tting. It is a historic and universally proven high-performance solution that is not only compliant with today’s standards but resilient to tomorrow’s energy challenges. Crucially, copper is also infi nitely recyclable without loss of performance, making it a


cornerstone material for a circular economy and a truly sustainable heating future.


Copper’s role in heat pump installations


Heat pumps represent the frontline of the UK’s decarbonisation strategy. But if the UK is serious about lowering emissions, improving energy effi ciency, and building homes that last, then copper must sit at the heart of this heat pump revolution. They work by transferring heat from the air,


“The government is showcasing their ambition to entirely rethink how the sector approaches heating homes, with a core objective to upgrade three million properties by December 2030.”


20 July 2026


ground, or water into a building, off ering a highly effi cient alternative to traditional heating methods. Copper pipe’s superior thermal conductivity and durability under pressure make them a natural choice to be used for heat pump systems. Integrating copper ensures that these systems both meet and exceed performance metrics. Plus, durability and compatibility with various technologies provide unparalleled versatility, ensuring that developers can adapt to future updates in legislation or energy models without signifi cant overhauls. Copper enables rapid and effi cient heat


transfer, ensuring that heat pumps operate at peak performance, even in high-demand or colder environments. Withstanding higher pressures and temperatures with ease, copper provides the mechanical resilience needed for safer systems.


Left: Andrew Surtees, co-founder, Copper Sustainability Partnership (CuSP)


The benefi t over plastic


pipes according to CuSP The Copper Sustainability Partnership’s (CuSP) Plastic Under Fire campaign contends that plastic pipe materials can ignite at temperatures as low as 210°C, releasing hydrogen chloride gas. It argues this poses serious health risks and complicates fi re safety in buildings. Using copper piping reduces these risks, helping to safeguard occupants and improve fi re safety compliance in both residential and commercial heat pump installations. With the UK seeing a 63% increase in hydronic heat pump sales in 2024 and aiming for 600,000 annual installations by 2028, the infrastructure supporting these systems is under intense scrutiny.


CuSP believes heat pumps supported by


copper piping are not just a choice, they’re a necessity for achieving long-term reliability and effi ciency.


Crucially, copper also eliminates fi re risks associated with plastic pipes.


The future


Ultimately, achieving the UK’s Net Zero ambitions will depend not only on policy and technology, but on selecting materials that can genuinely stay in use, be recovered, and be infi nitely recycled. By prioritising copper within both new-build and retrofi t projects, the sector can unlock greater effi ciency, durability and sustainability in heat pump systems. This approach will help deliver reliable, future- ready homes that meet environmental targets while providing long-term value for residents.


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