The Dutch government is planning to make it mandatory for homeowners to install a smart hybrid heat hump when replacing central heating boilers from 2029 onwards.

A hybrid heat pump is a dual-mode heating system that combines an electric air-source heat pump with a secondary heat source, most typically natural gas.

In a letter addressed to the Dutch Parliament, Minister of Housing and Spatial Planning, Elanor Boekholt-O’Sullivan, said a smart heat pump will “become the new standard” when replacing central heating boilers.

The letter explains that the precise scope of the obligation is still being worked out but specifies the requirement will not apply to homes that are, or will, be connected to a district heating network. It also does not apply to apartment buildings, or more recently-built homes as construction projects built from 2018 onwards have not been connected to gas.

Boekholt-O’Sullivan’s letter explains a hybrid heat pump allows homeowners to consume an average 65% less natural gas when heating their home, resulting in a C02 emission reduction of over 30%. It also points to research that found households with heat pumps have lower energy bills.

The minister says the Dutch Cabinet is working with the market to ensure the transition is simple, practical and economically feasible.

“We are examining purchase, installation, and operating costs and ensuring that there is sufficient installation capacity in the market to install and maintain heat pumps,” Boekholt-O’Sullivan said.

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