Spotlight Interview – Chris Goggin | Rinnai – Part 1

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• Spotlight Interview – Chris Goggin | Rinnai – Part 1

09 June 2026 | Updated 05 June 2026

In the first of this three-part mini-series ThisWeekinFM speaks to Chris Goggin, Director of Operations at Rinnai UK, the world’s largest manufacturer of gas appliances, including high efficiency multi purpose water heaters and space heaters, about the pragmatic path to net zero and the future of UK heating.

As the United Kingdom accelerates its journey toward the 2050 net-zero target, the heating industry finds itself at a critical crossroads. Goggin details the complexities of decarbonising the nation’s energy infrastructure, arguing that a dogmatic approach to technology could hinder progress. Instead, Goggin advocates for a "multi-technology" strategy that balances ambitious environmental goals with the practical realities of the UK’s diverse building stock.

Beyond a 'One Size Fits All' Solution

One of the primary challenges identified by Goggin is the tendency for policy discussions to focus on a single "silver bullet" technology. While heat pumps are frequently touted as the primary solution for domestic decarbonisation, Goggin notes that the commercial and industrial sectors present a far more complex set of requirements. High-demand environments - such as hospitals, hotels, and large-scale manufacturing sites - often require levels of peak performance that current electrical infrastructure and standalone heat pump technology may struggle to meet consistently.

Rinnai’s approach focuses on "future-ready" equipment. This involves designing systems that can adapt as the national grid evolves. Goggin highlights the development of continuous flow water heaters capable of operating on a 20% hydrogen blend, with clear pathways toward 100% hydrogen readiness. This allows businesses to invest in efficient technology today while ensuring their infrastructure is not rendered obsolete by future shifts in fuel availability.

The Role of Hydrogen and Hybrid Systems

Hydrogen remains a cornerstone of the conversation surrounding the UK's gas network. Goggin suggests that repurposing existing gas infrastructure to carry hydrogen is a logical step for sectors where total electrification is either prohibitively expensive or technically unfeasible. By utilising hydrogen, the UK can leverage its world-class gas grid to deliver high-density energy with zero carbon emissions at the point of use.

However, the transition is not an "either-or" scenario. Goggin emphasises the importance of hybrid systems - combining the high efficiency of electric heat pumps with the reliability and "boost" capability of gas or hydrogen-fired continuous flow heaters. Such systems can handle base-load heating requirements through renewable electricity while calling upon gas-fired units to meet peak demands, ensuring that hot water delivery is never compromised.

Technology	Key Strength	Ideal Application
Heat Pump	High energy efficiency (COP)	Base-load heating for well-insulated buildings
Hydrogen-Ready Boiler	Utilise existing gas infrastructure	High-demand commercial and industrial sites
Hybrid System	Reliable and versatile	Retrofitting existing large-scale building stock

Addressing the Skills Gap and Infrastructure

Technological innovation is only one half of the equation. Goggin points out that the transition to net zero requires a massive upskilling of the UK workforce. Transitioning from traditional gas boilers to more complex hybrid and renewable systems requires a deep understanding of system design and integration. Rinnai is actively involved in training initiatives to ensure that engineers are equipped to install and maintain these next-generation appliances.

Furthermore, the physical infrastructure of the UK remains a hurdle. Many older buildings lack the insulation levels required for heat pumps to operate effectively, and the electrical grid requires significant reinforcement to handle the increased load of heating and transport electrification. Goggin argues that a pragmatic timeline is essential to prevent "fuel poverty" and to ensure that the transition is economically sustainable for both domestic consumers and commercial enterprises.

A Sustainable Future

In conclusion, Chris Goggin’s insights provide a sobering yet optimistic look at the UK's energy future. The road to net zero is paved with technical and economic challenges, but through a combination of hydrogen, electrification, and intelligent hybrid system design, a carbon-neutral heating sector is achievable. The key, according to Goggin, lies in remaining open to a variety of technological solutions and ensuring that efficiency, reliability, and affordability remain at the heart of the UK's energy policy.

Picture: A headshot of Chris Goggin, Director of Operations at Rinnai UK.

Article written by Dave Mapps | Published 09 June 2026

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