CMA to publish green heating guidance for manufacturers

Concerns raised over misleading hydrogen claims

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has raised concerns about boiler companies making potentially ‘misleading’ marketing claims about use of hydrogen in home heating, following a Sky News investigation. 

The broadcaster reported that a number of boiler companies have made confusing and potentially misleading marketing statements. Sky cited a claim on manufacturer Worcester Bosch’s website, which it said had subsequently been withdrawn, stating that the gas grid is due to switch to ‘100% hydrogen’. However, the government has yet to make a decision on the proportion of home heating that will be supplied by hydrogen. 

Sabrina Basran, director of consumer protection at the CMA, said: ‘While we can’t comment on individual firms, these claims may be misleading and risk greenwashing consumers into thinking these products are more environmentally friendly than they are. We’ll be publishing new guidance to help businesses meet their legal obligations when marketing products in the green heating and insulation sector, as well as considering whether further action, such as enforcement, is necessary.’