Major Expansion to Boiler Upgrade Scheme Offers Families More Choice
A significant change to a major government grant scheme is now in effect, offering UK households more flexibility and financial support to transition to low-carbon heating. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which already provides substantial grants for heat pumps, has been expanded to include new technologies.
The scheme, initiated by the Labour Party government, currently offers grants of £7,500 to help with the cost of installing an air source or ground source heat pump. These systems are designed to efficiently heat homes during the colder months.
New £2,500 Discount for Versatile Air-to-Air Heat Pumps
This week, the scheme has been broadened significantly. Households can now also receive a £2,500 discount for installing an air-to-air heat pump. When combined with the existing support, this brings the total potential financial help for some households to £10,000.
Unlike some other systems, air-to-air heat pumps provide a dual function. They are designed to keep homes warm in the winter and can also provide cooling during the summer, offering a versatile solution for year-round climate control.
Minister for Energy Consumers, Martin McCluskey, stated: "Air-to-air heat pumps offer the best of both worlds – keeping you warm in winter while cooling you down when summer comes along." He emphasised that this expansion aims to ensure as many people as possible can benefit, "especially those in flats or small homes without central heating."
Industry and Experts Welcome the Move
The expansion has been welcomed by industry leaders and sustainability experts. Andrew Sissons, Deputy Director of Nesta’s sustainable future mission, highlighted the importance of this support in a warming climate, helping people heat and cool their homes sustainably.
Charlotte Lee, Chief Executive of the Heat Pump Association, welcomed the announcement, noting that the BUS has played a "vital role in accelerating the transition to low-carbon heating." She added that broadening the range of supported technologies is an "important step in offering consumers more choice."
Other technologies now eligible for support include heat batteries. The government is also consulting on the future role of other innovative clean heating solutions, such as thermal storage, infrared panels, and renewable fuels.
This policy change represents a significant step in the UK's efforts to reduce carbon emissions from home heating, tackle fuel poverty by reducing energy bills, and provide households with greater comfort throughout the entire year.
