What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government grant that helps property owners switch from fossil-fuel heating to low-carbon alternatives such as air source and ground source heat pumps. It’s run by Ofgem and is part of the UK’s plan to cut carbon emissions from home heating.
Unlike most grants, you don’t apply yourself. Your MCS-certified installer applies on your behalf, and the grant is simply taken off the price you pay for your installation.
Grant amounts
How much is the grant?
| Low-carbon system | Grant |
|---|---|
| Air source heat pump | £7,500 |
| Ground source heat pump | £7,500 |
| Biomass boiler | £5,000 |
| Air-to-air heat pump | £2,500 |
One grant per property. Grants can’t be used for hybrid systems or to replace an existing low-carbon heating system.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
You could qualify if:
- You own the property — including landlords, second homes and properties you rent out
- It’s in England or Wales
- You’re replacing a fossil-fuel system, such as oil, gas, LPG or electric heating
- You haven’t already had government funding for a heat pump or biomass boiler at the property
Not usually eligible
- Most new-build properties
- Social housing
- Homes that already have a heat pump
Good to know
The scheme isn’t means-tested — you don’t need to be on benefits. Self-built homes can also qualify in some cases.
Where it applies
Boiler Upgrade Scheme by region
| Region | What’s available |
|---|---|
| England | Boiler Upgrade Scheme |
| Wales | Boiler Upgrade Scheme |
| Scotland | Not covered — separate support through Home Energy Scotland |
| Northern Ireland | Not covered |
How to apply
How the application works
- Check you qualifyApply with us online or call — it takes a couple of minutes.
- Survey & quoteAn MCS-certified installer surveys your home and designs the right system.
- Installer applies to OfgemYour installer submits the grant application. Ofgem will contact you to confirm.
- InstallationThe heat pump must be installed within 120 days of applying. The grant comes straight off your bill.
Ofgem or MCS may also call or visit after installation to check the work — this is a normal part of the scheme.
Landlords
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme for landlords
Private landlords can use the scheme in the same way as homeowners, as long as they own the property and are replacing a fossil-fuel heating system. The landlord is the applicant, and the grant is deducted from the installation price.
Upgrading to a heat pump can also help improve your property’s energy rating, making it cheaper for tenants to heat.
FAQs
Boiler Upgrade Scheme questions
Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme means-tested?
No. Eligibility is based on your property and heating system, not your income.
Do I have to pay the grant back?
No. It’s a grant, not a loan, and it’s deducted from your installation price up front.
Can I apply myself?
No — your MCS-certified installer applies to Ofgem on your behalf. We’ll arrange this for you.
Can I combine it with other grants?
You can’t use the Boiler Upgrade Scheme if you’ve already had government funding for a heat pump or biomass boiler at the same property. You may still qualify for other measures such as insulation — we’ll check everything you’re entitled to.
How long do I have to install?
Your installer must install and commission the heat pump within 120 days of applying for the grant.
I live in a park home — can I apply?
Residential park homes heated by oil, LPG or electric can qualify. See our park home heat pump grants page.
