Murphy says investing in the heat pump sector will generate significant economic prosperity

Economy Minister Conor Murphy has said developing and investing in the local heat pump sector will not only drive the net zero agenda but generate significant economic prosperity.

Photo caption: Professor Neil Hewitt, Director, Centre for Sustainable Technologies, Ulster University, Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice Chancellor, Ulster University, Economy Minister Conor Murphy and Dr Marie Cowan, Director, GSNI

The Minister was speaking as he opened the heat pump Knowledge X-Change and Networking event co-hosted by the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland and Ulster University. The event was attended by SMEs, entrepreneurs, academics and policymakers to gain feedback on the opportunities and barriers facing the industry. The event will also help inform a future scale-up cluster.

Minister Murphy said:

“The global heat pump sector is worth £60billion and supports 1.3million jobs. By developing and investing in the local sector and securing even a small proportion of this vast global market, we can deliver significant economic prosperity for the region.

“The heat pump sector here is beginning to flourish. By leveraging its strengths in innovative engineering and advanced manufacturing, alongside capitalising on our unique dual-market access, it is delivering low and zero carbon solutions that are in global demand.

“In order to fully capitalise on the opportunity, all-island collaboration is key. By continuing to work in partnership across industry, Government and academia, we have the potential to make the north a centre of excellence in the heat pump industry.”

Welcoming the Economy Minister and over 120 delegates to this event at Ulster University Belfast, Vice Chancellor Professor Paul Bartholomew highlighted the research and innovation of the University’s Centre for Sustainable Technologies:

“It is fantastic to be able to announce the successful development of our new 200°C high-temperature heat pump prototype, a groundbreaking advancement for industrial processes. This innovative technology represents a significant step towards more sustainable and efficient industrial energy solutions. Our researchers and engineers have demonstrated exceptional expertise and commitment to addressing critical challenges in energy management.

“This prototype not only showcases our university’s leadership in cutting-edge research but also our dedication to fostering innovations that contribute to global sustainability efforts. We look forward to seeing the profound impact this technology will have on industries and our environment.”

Notes to editors: 

1. Photo caption: Professor Neil Hewitt, Director, Centre for Sustainable Technologies, Ulster University, Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice Chancellor, Ulster University, Economy Minister Conor Murphy and Dr Marie Cowan, Director, Geological Survey of Northern Ireland
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