For me, the biggest change in 2012 was the introduction of the new MCS rules in March. At first they looked like the usual meddling by 'the authorities', but after a few weeks we settled in and, actually, they seem so far to have been quite a success.

In the world of heat pumps, once the weather gets really cold all the badly installed and designed systems rear their heads. Although the weather has not been cold for long periods yet, we did experience a cold snap a few weeks ago and we saw a much lower number of problem units than in previous years. Early days I know, but I think MCS might have finally managed to get our industry to behave itself.

In September the RHI final consultation came out, causing all manner of gossip and speculation. This has not gone away and we saw an increase in the level of interest in heat pups in Q4. Long may it continue.

So, what's coming in 2013?

Well the big one is the RHI announcement in March. If all goes to plan, the RHI will be launched in Spring and hopefully will give us the shot in the arm we have all been waiting for. Panic will set in prior to launch date as we all try to get our existing systems registered in time for launch in Summer.

So fingers crossed for a good year in heat pump land. And happy new year to you all.