Mitsubishi Electric hosted Andrew Western, MP for Stretford and Urmston, and Sir Mark Hendrick, MP for Preston, at its Manchester office and training centre on 7 February. The visit focused on the role of heat pumps in the UK’s decarbonisation efforts and the electrification of heating in homes and businesses.
The MPs engaged with industry experts to discuss how heat pumps contribute to reducing carbon emissions and meeting the UK’s net zero targets. As fossil fuel-based heating is phased out, air-to-water heat pumps, such as Mitsubishi Electric’s Ecodan units, are emerging as a sustainable and energy-efficient alternative.
During the visit, the MPs toured Mitsubishi Electric’s training centre, where engineers receive practical training in installing and maintaining heat pump systems. The facility is part of the company’s broader initiative to upskill the UK workforce in low-carbon heating technologies. Mitsubishi Electric also operates training centres in Hatfield and Livingston, where Ecodan heat pumps are manufactured.
Andrew Western MP stated: “Decarbonising heating is a key challenge in tackling climate change, and it’s encouraging to see the work being done here in Stretford and Urmston to support the transition to clean energy. Heat pumps will play a major role in the future of sustainable heating in both homes and businesses, and I welcome Mitsubishi Electric’s commitment to training the next generation of installers.”
Sir Mark Hendrick MP added: “With the UK’s ambitious net zero targets, it is vital that we accelerate the shift to sustainable heating solutions. Mitsubishi Electric’s investment in training and technology is a crucial step in making heat pumps more accessible to homes and businesses.”
Shaun Garrod, Mitsubishi Electric’s Regional Business Manager, commented: “The visit underscored the importance of industry and government collaboration in driving the adoption of heat pump technology. At Mitsubishi Electric we are committed to supporting the UK’s transition to low-carbon heating with high-performance heat pumps and pioneering training that not only helps gas installers to embrace renewables but also trains the next generation of heating engineers.”
