Heat Pumps + Solar Panels: How They Work Together (And Why It Matters)

May 28
2 min read

The simple explanation

An air source heat pump (ASHP) and solar PV can be a brilliant combination: solar generates electricity, and a heat pump uses electricity to heat your home and hot water. When they’re designed to work together, you can reduce your reliance on gas and cut running costs.

If you’re an owner-occupier in Essex or London looking to future-proof your home, this is one of the most common questions we get: “If I’m getting solar, should I get a heat pump too?” or “If I’m getting a heat pump, do I need solar?”

AJK ASHP services

AJK Solar PV services

What each system does

Solar PV

· Generates electricity during daylight hours

· Helps reduce the amount of electricity you buy from the grid

Air source heat pump

· Uses electricity to move heat from outside air into your home

· Provides steady, efficient heating and hot water when designed properly

Why they’re stronger together

1) Solar can help power the heat pump

A heat pump needs electricity to run. Solar can cover some of that demand during the day, especially in spring/summer and on bright winter days.

2) You can shift energy use to match solar generation

With the right controls and setup, you can run certain heating/hot water cycles when solar is producing. That means you’re using more of your own electricity rather than exporting it.

3) It’s a step towards coming off gas

For many households, the long-term goal is to reduce gas usage or remove it entirely. Solar + heat pump is one of the most common routes towards that.