With the nation’s momentum shifting from fossil fuels to renewable energy, especially under the new Labour Government, these centres help to educate homeowners in the area on the benefits of sustainable, low-carbon, home heating, and support anyone considering the transition.

The official launch event ran from 10am to 3pm on Friday 23rd August and was open to all, from homeowners to trade professionals such as merchants, existing heating installers, and those considering careers as heat pump installers.

Olivia Smalley, Head of Policy and Communication at The Heat Pump Association attended the opening along with Natasha Irons, Labour MP for Croydon West, and Councillor Jeet Bains, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration.

Visitors have been able to meet experts from Daikin and experience Daikin’s latest heat pump technology. Daikin will be there to personally explain the training and opportunities to guests and showcase its products.

The Daikin Sustainable Home Centre serves as a knowledge hub for those interested in heating and cooling, as well as a venue for installers to consult their clients and for Harris & Bailey to train the next generation of low-carbon heating engineers.

The centre aims to empower installers to embrace renewable heating and to encourage installers to replace a boiler, older heat pump or any other heat source with the Daikin Altherma H HT to receive £500 cashback or credit with Daikin*.

Olivia Smalley said: “With growing demand for heat pumps, this type of industry collaboration is vital. Partnerships like those of Daikin and Harris & Bailey are crucial to the collective industry efforts to upskill and reskill individuals who are eager to enter this rapidly growing market. It was great to visit the centre and witness firsthand the extensive range of innovative products available to consumers who are keen to transition to low-carbon heating solutions. The brand-new training facility stands as a testament to the commitment of the sector to equip the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to reduce the carbon emissions produced by heating.”

Natasha Irons, Labour MP for Croydon East, stated: “I’m thrilled to see this facility open, offering residents a hands-on opportunity to explore the benefits of heat pumps and what they can bring to our homes. It’s not just a resource for homeowners but also a beacon for younger generations, showcasing potential career paths in this critical sector. This facility empowers people to upskill and stay informed about local opportunities. Amid a climate emergency, decarbonising our buildings and energy systems is essential, and it’s through initiatives like this and the strength of our community that we can make real progress.”

Councillor Jeet Bains, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration, commented: “It’s been fascinating to learn about the benefits of heat pumps and how Daikin is contributing to addressing the climate emergency. Having a centre like the Sustainable Home Centre here in Croydon to educate and inform installers is highly significant for our community.”

David Harger, Sales Manager at Harris Bailey said: “We are excited to have bought this innovative hub to Croydon, which will not only provide cutting-edge solutions for homeowners but also support and train local installers to become proficient in sustainable heating technologies.

“Our partnership with Daikin underscores our commitment to promoting renewable energy and supporting the local community in its journey towards a greener future. By providing local professionals with the knowledge and skills required to install and maintain these advanced systems, we are fostering a new generation of heating engineers who can contribute to a more sustainable future.”

Commercial Manager of Heating & Renewables at Daikin UK, Iain Bevan commented: “Heat pumps hold immense potential for slashing energy consumption and home bills. Over their 15-year lifespan, transitioning from a fossil fuel boiler to an air source heat pump could result in savings exceeding £3,000 compared to gas boilers, over £6,000 compared to oil, and surpassing £9,000 compared to LPG.

“Our studies reveal that a staggering 68% of homeowners are unaware of the significantly higher energy efficiency of heat pumps over gas boilers. While gas boilers operate at 70-90% efficiency, heat pumps soar between 300-400%. There’s an essential need to educate homeowners about heat pump technology, and our Sustainable Home Centres, like Harris Bailey, offer the ideal platform for such endeavours.

“Furthermore, with substantial funding accessible through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, now boosted to £7,500, homeowners have a remarkable opportunity to undertake green energy efficiency enhancements.”