As the drive to decarbonise buildings and reduce reliance on fossil fuels gathers pace, heat pumps are emerging as one of the most prominent technologies in the transition towards electrified heating. Advocates point to their potential to lower emissions, improve energy efficiency and support net-zero goals, while critics highlight concerns around upfront costs, grid capacity, performance in different climates and the challenges of large-scale deployment. As governments, industry and consumers seek practical pathways to a cleaner energy future, the debate over the role of heat pumps has become increasingly significant.

This debate will explore the opportunities, challenges and trade-offs associated with the electrification of heat. It will consider the implications for housing, infrastructure, energy systems and affordability, while examining whether heat pumps represent the most effective route to decarbonising buildings. The session will assess how policy, technology and market adoption can shape the future of heating in Australia and determine the pace of the transition away from traditional energy sources.