About Nesta

Nesta is an innovation foundation. For us, innovation means turning bold ideas into reality and changing lives for the better. We use our expertise, skills and funding in areas where there are big challenges facing society.

Planning for heat: what planning teams need to know about air source heat pumps - 2 Oct 2025 13:00 – 14:00

Many local authorities across England are working towards ambitious carbon neutrality targets, often well ahead of national goals. However, with reduced council budgets, planning and environmental health officers frequently lack clear guidance on heat pumps. This can lead to uncertainty regarding regulations and concerns about potential increases in complaints, which could strain already busy teams. Planning permission, in particular, can be a significant hurdle for homeowners looking to install a heat pump, with noise often emerging as a contentious issue.

Join us on Thursday 2 October 13:00-14:00 BST for an online session to learn more about the latest guidance and innovative approaches to heat pump planning.

Hear a summary of the recently updated planning rules and why they are crucial for fostering greater confidence in heat pump installations.

We will then invite expert speakers to discuss the practical application of these rules, exploring how to simplify the planning process, address common concerns like sound and make swift, informed decisions. They will share insights on the opportunities and challenges this presents and how to ensure consistent and effective implementation across local authorities.

This online event will focus on how planning and environmental health officers can proactively support the transition to low-carbon heating and will be of interest to policymakers, housing developers, and those in the energy sector working on heat pump deployment.

Register today to receive the event link, reminders and updates straight to your inbox.

Speakers to be announced shortly.