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Grants and loans

Boiler Upgrade Scheme

Location notice

Please note that this page contains information and links most relevant for people living in England, Wales.

We're waiting to hear from the new UK Government on the future of this funding. We'll update this page as soon as we get any new information.

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government grant for people in England and Wales who want to install a heat pump or, in some circumstances, a biomass boiler.

How much funding is available?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme covers three low carbon heating systems. If you’re eligile, you can get one grant per property:

The amount you’re eligible for should be deducted upfront from any quotes you get from an installer.

How will I know which low carbon heating system is right for my property?

Your installer can advise whether a heat pump or biomass boiler is suitable for your property. Although you’re not required to have home insulation to qualify for the BUS, the installer may recommend improving the energy efficiency of your property first.

Read our advice on loft insulation and cavity wall insulation to help improve your property’s energy efficiency before installing a low carbon heating system.

Who can apply to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

The BUS is open to homeowners and owners of small business properties in England and Wales only.

To apply, you’ll need to:

  • Own your property (this can be a home or a small business property).
  • Currently have a fossil fuel heawting system or an electric heating system without a heat pump.
  • Have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
  • Have a property with a maximum installation capacity up to 45kWth (kilowatt-thermal). This covers most homes.
  • Your installer must be certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and a member of an approved consumer code.

For biomass boilers, you’re only eligible if the property is:

  • In a rural location and not connected to the gas grid.
  • Not a self-build property.

How can I apply to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

  1. Find an MSC certified installer in your area who can carry out the work. We recommend you contact three installers for quotes to make sure you’re happy with the cost of the work.dedu
  2. The installer will tell you if you’re eligible for a BUS grant. 
  3. Agree a quote with your installer. The value of the grant from the BUS will be deducted upfront as part of the quote.
  4. The installer will apply for the grant and carry out the work.

 

Boiler Upgrade Scheme FAQs

Last updated: 15 August 2024