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Flexibility, grids and energy system integration

Flexibility, grids and energy system integration

Use heat pumps' flexibility

Heat pumps can be turned on when electricity demand is lower, and off at peak times. This balances out electricity demand and reduces costs for the EU’s energy system and for consumers.

To ensure this happens, consumers need to have some sort of incentive, such as electricity tariffs that change according to overall demand.

Grid operators need to be aware of the flexibility potential offered by heat pumps and take this into account in their grid planning.

It is also important that heat pumps can be switched off and on to enable grid stability and help the power system run smoothly.

What's the EU doing?

NETWORK CODE ON DEMAND CONNECTION

The EU’s Network Code on Demand Connection harmonises the rules over how to connect large renewable energy plants to the grid and integrate demand response into the electricity grid.

GRID CONNECTION CODE

The EU’s Grid Connection Code sets the rules for connecting users, like power generators and consumers, to the electricity grid.

These rules are meant to ensure a reliable and secure grid, boost renewable energy, and support fair competition in the electricity market.

Have questions on a specific file or position? Click here to find the right policy colleague to assist you. For general inquiries, email policy@ehpa.org.  

EU Projects

EHPA’s work on flexibility, grids, and energy system integration is further supported by the EU-funded projects:

Policy news

Excess heat recovery to save industries billions of euros each year

Three-quarters of industrial CO₂ emissions come from heat. From paper and glass to chemicals and steel, most o...

16 Oct 2025
Policy and certification in focus: EHPA at Heat Pump Summit 2025

The European Heat Pump Association (EHPA) is returning to the European Heat Pump Summit on 28–29 October 2025 ...

01 Oct 2025
New EU State Aid Framework must back heat pumps to deliver on clean industry goals 

The EU’s just updated its rules on which sectors governments can give money to deliver on the Clean Indu...

25 Jun 2025

Position papers
and joint statements:

EHPA feedback on the European Affordable Housing Plan

Affordable housing is not only a social priority; it is also a cornerstone of the EU’s climate and energy tran...

16 Oct 2025
EHPA position on the EU energy security framework

Heat pumps play a pivotal role in enhancing Europe’s energy security by harnessing natural energy from the air...

13 Oct 2025
EHPA position on the Heating and Cooling Strategy

The heating and cooling sector still accounts for over 50% of all energy consumption in the EU. Although renew...

10 Oct 2025