The smallest ground source heat pump in the world could spur rapid demand for domestic renewable energy installations, after winning a national award for innovation.

The Shoebox Heat Pump has been developed by Truro-based Kensa Engineering and offers a realistic alternative to traditional gas boiler installations, while being the smallest and quietest pump of its kind ever developed.

After recently winning the Product Innovation of the Year award at the National Heat Pump Awards, the roll-out of the device could require more and more plumbing and heating professionals to be capable of installing such domestic renewable energy systems.

Simon Lomax, the managing director of Kensa Engineering, said that they were delighted to win the award and to be able to help raise awareness of ground source heat pump systems.

“Unlike air source heat pumps which must secure permitted development rights or planning permission, ground source heat pumps can be routinely installed,” he explained. “They also deliver the lowest possible running costs of any renewable heating system.”

The company’s marketing manager, Stephanie Rees, added, “Awards can play a significant part in elevating our reputation and market presence, and as the only UK manufacturer and current market leader of ground source heat pumps, we hope to continue to use these accolades to promote interest in our products.”

Renewable heat technology, such as the Shoebox, are becoming increasingly popular due to the Government’s encouragement through grant schemes such as the Renewable Heat Premium Payment scheme (RHPP), and the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).