Switching to low-carbon heating is not just good for the planet but it can also unlock serious savings on your energy bills. But with so many incentives and options available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where the Boiler Upgrade Scheme comes in.
Designed to accelerate the UK’s transition away from fossil fuels, this government-backed initiative provides upfront grants to help homeowners afford more sustainable heating systems. In this blog, we will focus on what really matters: boiler upgrade scheme eligibility, who qualifies, who doesn’t, and how to ensure your application is successful.
What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) was launched in April 2022 to encourage homeowners and small business owners in England and Wales to replace old fossil fuel systems with low-carbon alternatives, including air and ground source heat pumps, along with biomass boilers commonly used in countryside settings.
Under the scheme, qualifying applicants can receive:
- £7,500 for air source heat pumps
- £7,500 for ground source heat pumps
- £5,000 for biomass boilers (only in rural properties)
These funds are paid directly to the installer and deducted from your total bill which makes the switch more affordable and straightforward as compared to other grants.
Who Can Apply?
Before diving into specific technologies, let’s first look at the broader boiler upgrade scheme eligibility rules. You must:
- Own the property (residential or small non-domestic)
- Be located in England or Wales
- An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be in place with all recommended insulation measures already completed
- Replace an existing fossil fuel-based or electric heating system that doesn’t already use a heat pump
- Working only with a Microgeneration Certification Scheme certified installer like Infinity
Importantly, new-build homes are not eligible. If you’re a landlord, you must inform your tenants about the planned upgrade.
Which Heating Systems Qualify?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme supports reliable, low-carbon technologies that help reduce emissions.
Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)
ASHPs extract heat from the outside air to provide space heating and hot water. To qualify for the scheme, the system must be an air-to-water heat pump, which connects to your central heating system. Air-to-air heat pumps, which use internal fans to circulate warm air, are not eligible under current BUS rules.
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Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs)
Use pipes buried underground to extract natural warmth from the earth. They require more outdoor space but are extremely efficient. Both individual and shared loop systems are accepted under certain conditions.
Property Eligibility Criteria
To ensure the scheme delivers maximum benefit, your property must meet these additional requirements:
- Located in England or Wales
- Not part of a social housing scheme
- Newly built properties are not eligible if owned by a developer, unless the project qualifies as a self-build under the scheme’s ownership rules.
- Shared ground loops are allowed, but each home must have its own individual heat pump.
- Renovations and conversions may be eligible, but must have a distinct EPC
Installer and Certification Requirements
The application process is installer-led, meaning only an MCS-accredited professional like Infinity can submit your application. They must:
- Be certified for the type of system being installed
- Support the full setup of your BUS account and guide you through the grant application.
- Provide accurate system data and keep documentation for six years
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Partner with Only an MCS-Certified Installer: Always refer to the official MCS installer like Infinity to select qualified professionals in your region.
- Property Assessment & Quote: Your installer will visit, assess your home’s suitability, and issue a quote.
- Application Submitted by Installer: They will handle all paperwork and submit your application to Ofgem.
- Receive a Grant Voucher: Once issued, it’s valid for 3 months for ASHPs and biomass systems, or 6 months for GSHPs.
- Installation and Redemption: After installation, your installer will redeem the voucher, and you’ll only need to cover the remaining balance.
Updates to Scheme and Funding
In 2024, several changes were introduced to simplify eligibility and improve access:
- Expanded grant budget: Now over £295 million for 2025/26
- Increased installer training: Over 5,000 heat pump engineers trained under the Heat Training Grant
- Third-party ownership: Soon, options like “heat-as-a-service” may allow households to benefit from low-carbon tech with little or no upfront investment
Infinity: Your Experts in Energy-Efficient Heating
At Infinity, we’ve helped countless UK homeowners make the most of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme. We know that understanding boiler upgrade scheme eligibility can be confusing, which is why we handle everything for you.
We are MCS-certified, and our engineers carry out detailed property assessments and recommend the ideal system based on your needs. From eligibility checks to installation and grant redemption, we guide you every step of the way.
We’re not just installers, we’re your partners in building a greener, more efficient future for your home.
Conclusion
Upgrading your heating system has never been more rewarding. With grants of up to £7,500 available, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a golden opportunity for homeowners to adopt cleaner, more efficient technology.
But understanding boiler upgrade scheme eligibility is the key to unlocking these benefits. Make sure your property qualifies, choose an MCS-certified installer, and act early to secure your grant.
Need help navigating the process? Infinity is here to make it easy. Visit us today and take the first step toward a low-carbon, energy-efficient home. Let’s heat smart. Together!
