Conference Agenda

Energy transition in the Global North, particularly in countries like the United Kingdom, is closely linked to the shift towards more sustainable heating systems. Technologies such as heat pumps and hydrogen boilers are gaining attention as alternatives to traditional gas boilers, because they allow reduction in carbon emissions and support the move towards cleaner energy sources. This paper investigates household preferences for alternative domestic heating systems in the United Kingdom and the potential barriers to its adoption, focusing on heat pumps and hydrogen boilers as potential substitutes for conventional gas heating. Results show that individuals are more likely to update their current heating system but adopting similar technologies. Heat pumps were found to be more likely to be adopted than hydrogen systems and this is explained by the similarities with the current gas boilers, mostly present in UK households. Installation costs, awareness (information), education and age were significant factors influencing adoption of heating systems. Finally, technical information and benefits of the new systems were found to greater influence the decisions than environmental benefits, which is relevant for the design of the policy implementation strategy.