Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

NEWS UPDATE FOR BOILER UPGRADE GRANT

Last year the value of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant for air source heat pumps was increased by of 50%, from £5,000 to £7,500, saving property owners thousands.

The value of the grant for ground source heat pumps also increased to £7,500 from £6,000. The grant for biomass boilers remained the same at £5,000.

The Chief Executive of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) Ian Rippen said: "MCS welcomes the Government announcement today that The Boiler Upgrade Scheme UK grant values will be increased to £7,500. Making it easier and more affordable for the average UK consumer to transition to low-carbon heating, through air source heat pumps, which is vital if we are to reach our national decarbonisation goals.

“More people will now have the confidence and ability to invest in low-carbon heating and this is an important step forward towards net zero.”

“However, it is disappointing to see a delay in the deadline to phase out new gas boilers by 2035. The most important element of helping consumers make the right, informed, green choice is clarity and moving the goalposts now risks confusing home and business owners about what the right thing to do is.”

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

The BUS is a Government incentive to encourage more people to install low carbon heating systems, such as heat pumps and biomass boilers to help with home energy efficiency. This means you could be get government funding or support for a heat pump or biomass boiler.

What technologies are covered by the scheme and how much funding is available?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme BUS covers both air source and ground source heating systems:

• Air Source Heat Pumps: £5,000 (now £7,500) off cost and installation
• Ground Source Heat Pumps: £6,000 (now 7,500) off cost and installation

Solar thermal is not eligible.

We can advise which heat pump is suitable for your property and whether solar PV would be a useful option. The scheme is open to homeowners and the owners of small business properties.

What do I need to be eligible?

To apply, you’ll need to:

• Own your property whether a home or a small business property
• Have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) that is less than 10 years old . The intention is to provide grants for 30,000 installs a year for three-years on a first-come first-served basis

How can I get the grant?

The Heat Pump Upgrade Scheme is an installer-led scheme.

This means that we would apply for the grant on your behalf and the value of the grant will be taken off the final price you pay

How will the process work?

1. You will need to use and MCS installer in your area, such as ourselves. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is quality assurance scheme that ensures that installers are competent, and the products they use meet the correct standards. Only MCS registered installers can apply for the BUS on your behalf.

2. We can advise you on whether your installation is eligible for a grant under the scheme.

3. Once you decide to proceed with an installation, we will provide an MCS quote which will show the grant from the Boiler Scheme as a deduction from the total amount.

4. Once the Quote is signed, we will apply for the grant.

5. You will then be contacted by Ofgem, who oversee the grant scheme, to confirm that we are acting on your behalf.

6. Once the installation is completed, we will redeem the voucher from Ofgem.

‍Why Consider Upgrading to a Heat Pump?

Transitioning to a heat pump system offers significant benefits beyond the initial grant savings. By switching from traditional heating methods, like a fossil fuel boiler using gas or oil, to a low-carbon option such as an air or ground source heat pump, property owners can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the UK’s net-zero targets. Heat pumps provide an energy saving, reliable source of heating and are typically more cost-effective over time due to their lower energy consumption.

Additionally, the UK government’s increased focus on clean energy solutions means that households upgrading now may be future-proofing against potential policy changes and rising energy prices. 

Heat pumps require less maintenance than traditional boilers and generally have a longer lifespan, helping homeowners save money on repairs and replacements. While the upfront cost of a heat pump may be higher, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant significantly offsets this expense, making it a more viable option for many. By opting into this scheme, homeowners and small business property owners can enjoy sustainable, efficient heating while supporting the national goal of reducing carbon emissions.

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