Yorkshire division installs over 150 heat pumps following major training drive

The Yorkshire division of John N Dunn Group has successfully installed over 150 air source heat pumps across five residential sites for existing clients, following a significant training programme that has equipped a third of its workforce, including contract managers, with industry-recognised BTEC qualifications.

Operating from its Leeds office, the division is responding to fast-growing demand for low-carbon heating solutions. From a standing start 24 months ago, the team has gone from zero to over 150 installs over the past 12 months, with heat pumps now accounting for 10–15% of all installations delivered by the division.

To meet this rise in demand, the business has made a significant investment in staff training. Over the past two years, 24 employees have completed BTEC-accredited training in air source heat pumps. They make up a third of the workforce now trained in heat pump installation, many of whom have also received manufacturer-specific training. The training aligns with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and ensures compliance with Building Regulations Part L.

The Yorkshire division, part of Newcastle-headquartered John N Dunn Group, employs 76 people and provides plumbing services across residential new-build and retrofit projects. It is a key driver of the company’s wider low-carbon strategy, with capabilities expanding across both traditional and renewable heating systems.

James Harris, managing director of the Yorkshire division, said: “Reaching over 150 installations is a major milestone and exactly what we set out to achieve. With 24 members of staff now BTEC-qualified, that is a third of our workforce trained in heat pump installation – we’re in a strong position to deliver low-carbon solutions with consistency and quality at scale.”

The five projects have all been delivered for existing clients, showing a growing appetite within the housing sector for low-carbon solutions. With greater regulatory pressure and rising energy efficiency targets, more developers and housing associations are now opting for air source heat pumps over traditional gas systems.

James, said: “Apprentices continue to be a core part of our business and are gaining hands-on experience with these technologies from day one. That means we’re not just reacting to demand, we’re preparing for the future.”

The Yorkshire team’s work feeds into John N Dunn Group’s national sustainability strategy.

The company is certified under MCS for both heat pump and solar PV installations and is an authorised installer under the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) for EV charging infrastructure.

Stephen Bilclough, chairman of John N Dunn Group, said: “There’s a clear shortage of qualified heat pump installers across the UK and we’ve responded to that by investing in upskilling our workforce. This is a brilliant achievement by the Yorkshire team and shows what can be done with the right focus and training.”