British households are turning to green energy upgrades in record numbers as the Iran crisis sends global oil and gas prices soaring, data from leading energy suppliers suggests. Demand for solar panels, heat pumps and electric vehicles has leapt since the war began on 28 February, with energy bills expected to rise by 18% from July.
Octopus Energy, the UK's biggest energy supplier, reported that heat pump orders more than doubled in March compared with February, solar power system sales rose almost 80%, and new electric vehicle leases increased by more than 85%. British Gas, the second largest supplier, recorded a 250% increase in solar panel installation inquiries since 28 February, along with a significant rise in interest in heat pumps.
Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, chief product officer at Octopus, said: 'British families are tired of being held hostage by global fossil fuel prices. We're seeing a massive shift as people take matters into their own hands – switching to solar, heat pumps and EVs, locking in low running costs and shielding themselves from future price shocks.'
Allan Burgess from Great Yarmouth installed a heat pump last month after the cost of heating oil, used by over 1 million UK households, rocketed from £250 to £700 for 500 litres in less than a week. 'Once the war in Iran started I knew I had to switch,' he said. His heat pump was installed within five days of ordering, costing £1,500 after a government grant.
Furbnow, a home energy upgrades provider, recorded a 42% increase in inquiries since late February, with many customers seeking to cut reliance on fossil fuels. Chief executive Becky Lane said: 'These aren't panicked reactions, they're considered decisions. Families have realised the most resilient thing they can do is reduce how much energy their home needs in the first place.'
