If you’re a homeowner in the UK, energy bills have likely been a hot topic lately. With rising costs and growing concerns about climate change, finding ways to cut down on energy use is more important than ever. That’s where the Boiler Upgrade Scheme UK comes in—a government-backed initiative that helps you make your home more energy efficient while saving money.
But how exactly do you qualify for it? And what about other related support like government grants for loft insulation? This guide will cover all the essential information you need to get started.
What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a UK government initiative launched to encourage homeowners to replace traditional gas and oil boilers with low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps or biomass boilers.
What’s the goal?
Simple: lower carbon emissions and help households save money over time. The initiative forms a key component of the UK’s broader plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
What does it offer?
Homeowners can receive:
- £5,000 towards an air source heat pump
- £6,000 for a ground source heat pump
- £5,000 for a biomass boiler (only in rural areas without gas)
Who Can Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
Eligibility is fairly straightforward, but there are a few things to check before applying.
You must be:
- An individual who owns a home or operates a small business in England or Wales
- Replacing an existing fossil fuel heating system (gas, oil, LPG)
- Having the new system fitted by an installer accredited under the MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme)
Your property must:
- Have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Not require insulation upgrades—unless you also apply for government grant for loft insulation or other energy efficiency help
Note: You can’t use the scheme to replace existing low-carbon systems like heat pumps.
Real-World Example: Sarah’s Semi in Kent
Let’s make this real. Sarah, a homeowner in Kent, applied for the scheme last year. Her home had an old oil boiler that was costing a fortune to run.
Here’s how it played out:
- Her EPC showed good insulation, so she was ready to go
- She worked with an MCS-certified installer to install an air source heat pump
- She received a £5,000 grant, which covered nearly half the total cost
Her monthly heating bills dropped by around 30%, and she’s no longer reliant on heating oil, which fluctuated wildly in price.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
The process is designed to be simple. You don’t even apply directly for the grant—your installer does it for you.
Here’s how it works:
- Find an MCS-certified installer
Use the MCS website or ask around locally. - Get a quote
They’ll assess your home and provide a cost breakdown. - Installer applies for the grant
Once you accept the quote, the installer will submit the BUS application for you. - Grant is deducted from the cost
You only pay the remaining balance.
Can You Combine This with Other Grants?
Yes, and this is where things get even more appealing. The UK government also provides grants for loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and more.
If your EPC report recommends loft insulation upgrades, you may be eligible for:
- ECO4 Scheme: Focuses on low-income households
- Local Authority Delivery (LAD): For homes with poor energy ratings
- Great British Insulation Scheme: Newly introduced and available to a wide range of households
Real Case Study: The Jackson Family in Birmingham
The Jacksons live in a three-bed semi with a dated gas boiler and poor insulation. Here’s what they did:
- Got loft insulation through a government grant for loft insulation under the ECO4 scheme
Upgraded their EPC rating from E to C - which made them eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and allowed them to install a heat pump.
Result: Their home is warmer in winter, their gas bill is nearly gone, and the carbon footprint of their home dropped significantly.
What Types of Homes Are Best for This?
Not every home is ideal, but many are.
Best candidates:
- Homes off the gas grid (oil or LPG users)
- Rural properties
- Modern builds with good insulation
- Renovated homes with loft and wall insulation already done
Less suitable:
- Flats with no outdoor space for a heat pump
- Homes with poor insulation (unless you fix that first)
Common Questions Answered
What if I live in a rental?
Unfortunately, tenants can’t apply directly. But landlords can. If you’re renting, talk to your landlord—it might be in their best interest too.
Is the grant paid to me?
Nope. The grant goes straight to the installer, and they deduct it from your bill.
What if my EPC needs improvements?
That’s where government funding for loft insulation plays a role. You might qualify for a separate grant to make those improvements before applying for BUS.
Final Tips Before You Apply
Before you jump in, here are a few smart steps to take:
- Check your EPC report. If you don’t have one, get one—it’s valid for 10 years.
- Upgrade insulation first. Not only can this unlock additional grants, but it also boosts your energy savings long-term.
- Work with a reliable installer. They’ll walk you through everything, including the paperwork.
- Ask about combining schemes. A good installer or energy advisor will know how to bundle support.
Time to Act
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme won’t be around forever—it’s set to run until 2028, but funding is limited each year. f your heating system is old, now is the ideal moment to make a change.
Better comfort. Lower bills. A greener home.
Plus, if your home needs it, government grants for loft insulation can make the whole project even more affordable. Start by having your EPC assessed and consulting with an installer.