The rise of hydrogen heat pumps

Electric heat pumps have gained traction in decarbonising heat, and hydrogen-powered alternatives are now entering the conversation, offering potential benefits for hard-to-electrify areas.

Heat pumps work by transferring heat rather than generating it, making them highly efficient. Traditional electric heat pumps extract heat from the air, ground, or water, but hydrogen-powered heat pumps use hydrogen as a fuel source to drive the process. This approach enables them to deliver high-temperature heat.

The efficiency of gas heat pumps, historically overlooked, has been demonstrated in various markets. Interest is growing across mainland Europe, where hydrogen’s role in heating is being actively explored.

The Netherlands is leading the way in developing hydrogen heat pumps, and now there is a world first to prove it. Cooll has demonstrated the world’s first hydrogen-powered heat pump for home heating. This innovation takes efficient hydrogen heating a step closer to becoming a practical option for end users.

As the UK moves toward net zero, diversification of heating solutions will be essential. Hydrogen heat pumps present an opportunity to leverage existing infrastructure while supporting a flexible and resilient energy system. With ongoing innovation and investment, they could become a viable component of a future-ready heating strategy.