PHAM NEWS | JUNE 2026 Energy Matters 15


Trial looks into unlocking heat pump flexibility


More than 1,800 UK households have taken part in a trial by the National Grid which looks at how heat pump users can best manage electricity demand while maintaining comfort levels. The EQUINOX (Equitable Novel


Flexibility Exchange) trial has tested new, easy-to-understand billing approaches that reward customers for shifting their heating patterns at certain times of day. Key findings show that customers shifted heating use


without noticeable comfort loss and that heat pumps can help reduce pressure on local networks during busy periods. The project also demonstrated that simple, customer-friendly design is key to encouraging engagement. Following feedback during the


project, National Grid has developed a new Equitable Participation Framework to help industry to target heat pump support more effectively. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/626/14


Report highlights future cooling needs


Air conditioning will become increasingly essential as rising summer temperatures place growing strain on health services and vulnerable people, says a new report from the Climate Change Committee. The report, ‘A Well-Adapted UK’, points out that many buildings are currently not designed to withstand prolonged heat and that hospitals, care homes, schools, workplaces and social care facilities will increasingly need cooling systems to cope with more frequent and intense heatwaves. The committee says overheating poses particular


risks to elderly and vulnerable people, while rising indoor temperatures in schools and workplaces


could affect safety, productivity and learning. The report describes more frequent heatwaves as


the “single greatest climate threat to public health” and has “called for maximum temperature regulations at work, cooling in hospitals and care homes by 2035 and in schools by 2050”. While stressing that passive measures like


shading, ventilation and better building design will still be important, the report says they will not be enough on their own and suggests that active cooling measures – including air conditioning – will be needed to keep indoor temperatures safe. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/626/15


Solar solutions in demand


As UK households react to rising energy costs and uncertainty following the escalation of the conflict in the Middle East, City Plumbing is reporting that it has seen a 32% uplift in sales of solar PV panels and related products, including battery storage, converters and accessories. The merchant says there has also been a huge increase in plug-in solar systems, following the government’s announcement of plans to relax legislation in this area. Alongside product demand, City Plumbing has also seen sustained


interest in its solar PV courses. Delivered in partnership with renewable energy training specialist GTEC Training, the three-day course covers how to design, install, and commission rooftop photovoltaics. “For installers, the key is being able to respond to this rising demand


quickly and with confidence, and that comes down to having the right products available, backed by the right technical support,” says Hemal Morjaria, chief commercial officer. To support growing demand, City Plumbing has a national network of


dedicated solar hubs, giving installers fast access to the products they need, when they need them. The hubs offer same-day collection and next-day national delivery, helping keep projects on track and avoid unnecessary delays. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/626/16


Edel :The Future of Hot Water Efficiency


The only hot water heat pump on the Government- backed Energy Technology List (ETL).


Consumes up to 3x less electricity than standard electric water heaters


Up to 630mm diameter and options of 170L, 200L or 270L storage


Sound proof hood, variable speed fan and a high


performance compressor on anti-vibration pads


Stainless steel tank and no requirement for a sacrificial anode


dimplex.co.uk/edel


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