Review of Air Source Heat Pump Noise Emissions, Permitted Development Guidance and Regulations Final Report

Summary

This UK government report investigates whether current planning regulations and guidance are suitable for the large-scale deployment of Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs) in England, focusing on noise emissions. A comprehensive review, including literature, household surveys, and stakeholder interviews, revealed that while ASHP noise is a concern for a minority of residents, existing regulations—such as the 42 dB sound limit and size restrictions—pose significant barriers to wider adoption, particularly in dense urban areas. The research found that current planning processes and assessment schemes may not adequately address cumulative noise impacts or real-world operating conditions, necessitating potential updates to facilitate decarbonization efforts.

Key Facts

Source Document

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