The Heat Pump Association UK (HPA UK) has announced the publication of the updated Closed Loop Vertical Borehole Standard – Version 5. This is the first updated technical standard released since the merger of the Ground Source Heat Pump Association (GSHPA) into HPA UK earlier this year.
The Closed Loop Vertical Borehole Standard has long served as a key technical reference for the design, installation and maintenance of vertical boreholes for closed-loop ground source heat pump systems. As the critical interface between the heat pump and the ground, vertical boreholes play a key role in determining system performance, efficiency and longevity.
Led by Chris Davidson, Chair of the HPA UK Standards Sub-Group, the standard has been updated in collaboration with other industry experts to reflect current best practice, technological advancements and the increasing role of ground source heat pump systems in the UK’s transition to electrified heating.
Designed for engineers, installers, and any other professionals involved in the specification and implementation of vertical borehole systems, it provides a consistent framework that promotes health and safety, environmental protection, system longevity and reliable outcomes for consumers.
The updated standard has also been endorsed by CIBSE, further strengthening its position as an industry benchmark and reflecting HPA UK’s commitment to broadening sector engagement.
The publication follows the HPA UK’s recent recommendations paper, Accelerating the Deployment of Heat Pump Driven Low Carbon Heat Networks and Drilling, which identified the review of the Closed Loop Vertical Borehole Standard as a key priority for the sector.
Closed Loop Vertical Borehole Standard Version 5 delivers on that ambition, providing an updated framework to support best practice, compliance and knowledge sharing across the industry, supporting quality design, installation and operation of vertical boreholes for closed loop systems.
Chris Davidson, Lead Author, said: “It is encouraging to see Version 5 of the Closed Loop Vertical Borehole Standard published. This is an important step forward for the sector, bringing the guidance up to date with current best practice and the latest developments in ground source heat pump technology. It provides engineers and installers with a clear, consistent framework to support high-quality design, installation and operation of vertical borehole systems.”
Ahmed Hegazi, CIBSE Head of Knowledge and Digital, also commented: “Ground source heat pumps can deliver some of the most efficient low carbon heating and cooling available, but only if what happens below ground is done right. Boreholes are hard to fix once installed, so getting design and installation right first-time matters. CIBSE welcomes Version 5 of the Closed Loop Vertical Borehole Standard. It gives building services engineers, designers, and specifiers an authoritative benchmark to work to.”
The Vertical Borehole Standard - Version 5 is available now through HPA UK Standards - HPA UK