Boiler Upgrade Scheme
What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a money grant from the UK government. It helps people in England and Wales get new, cleaner heating systems for their homes or small businesses. The scheme started on 1st April 2022 and will run until 2028.
The goal of the scheme is to help people stop using gas or oil boilers, which can harm the environment. Instead, the government wants more people to use low carbon systems like heat pumps or biomass boilers. These systems are better for the planet and help fight climate change.
What can you get from the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
If you qualify, you could get:
- £7,500 off the cost and installation of an air source heat pump
- £7,500 off the cost and installation of a ground source heat pump
These heating systems are more eco-friendly, helping to lower your energy bills and carbon footprint over time.
Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Which systems are covered?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme supports these heating technologies:
- Air source heat pumps (except air-to-air heat pumps)
- Ground source heat pumps
- Shared ground loop heat pumps
- Biomass boilers
These systems use heat from the air or ground, or natural wood pellets, to warm your home and hot water.
Who Can Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in 2025?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government grant for people in England and Wales who want to switch to cleaner heating. To get the grant, you need to meet certain rules.
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
- You must own the property you’re applying for. This includes:
- Your own home
- A rental property
- A small business building
- Your property needs a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Your EPC must not have any outstanding recommendations for loft or wall insulation.
Heat Pump Requirements:
If you want to install a heat pump (air source or ground source), it must:
- Be installed on or after 1st April 2022
- Replace an old fossil fuel system (like gas, oil, or electric boilers)
- Match your home’s heating and hot water needs
- Be no larger than 45kWth in capacity
Biomass Boiler Requirements:
If you’re thinking about a biomass boiler, these extra rules apply:
- Your property must be off the gas grid
- It must be in a rural area
The boiler must have an emissions certificate to show it meets pollution standards
What If You Don’t Live in England or Wales?
- In Scotland: You can apply for the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan, which gives money or interest-free loans to help improve energy use at home.
- In Northern Ireland: The Boiler Replacement Scheme ended in 2023, but keep an eye out for new grants that may be announced.
How does it work?
Getting the grant is simple with help from trusted installers. Here’s how the process usually goes:
- Contact an MCS-certified installer like Total Renewable Solutions.
- They will help you design the right system for your home.
- The installer will apply for the grant on your behalf.
- Once approved, they will install the system and handle everything for you.
You get a cleaner, energy-efficient heating system with less hassle!
Why choose a heat pump?
Lower energy bills over time
Reduce carbon emissions
Eco-friendly and future-proof
Government help with cost
No need for gas or oil
Heat pumps are becoming more popular, especially in new homes, because they are clean, safe, and smart.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a UK government grant that helps people pay for low carbon heating systems like heat pumps or biomass boilers. You can get up to £7,500 off the cost.
Who can apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
If you own a home or small building in England or Wales, and you want to replace your gas, oil, or electric boiler, you can apply. The scheme is open to homeowners and small business owners.
What heating systems are covered by the grant?
The grant covers:
- Air source heat pumps
- Ground source heat pumps
- Shared ground loop heat pumps
- Biomass boilers
Do I need to pay anything upfront?
Yes, you will likely still need to pay some upfront costs. But the £7,500 grant will lower the total cost of buying and installing the system.
How do I apply for the scheme?
Your installer will apply on your behalf. Just make sure they are MCS-certified (a government-approved installer). They will handle the paperwork and process for you.
. Is the scheme available in Scotland or Northern Ireland?
No, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is only for England and Wales. If you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland, check with local energy support services for other grants.
How long does the scheme last?
The scheme runs from 2022 to 2028, so you still have time to apply. However, funding may be limited—so it’s a good idea to apply early.
Is a heat pump better than a gas boiler?
Heat pumps use clean energy from the air or ground and are much better for the environment. They may cost more at first, but they can save you money in the long run and help cut carbon emissions.
Will someone help me with the whole process?
Yes! Many companies like Total Renewable Solutions handle everything—from system design to installation and applying for the grant—so you don’t have to worry.
