
How the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) works
What do you get?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) allows eligible householders to claim:
£5,000 off the cost and installation of an air source heat pump.
£5,000 off the cost and installation of a biomass boiler.
£6,000 off the cost and installation of a ground source heat pump.
Are you eligible?
To be eligible to claim the grant you must:
live in England or Wales
own your property
The property will need to have:
an installation capacity up to 45kWth (this covers most homes)
a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation (unless the property has insulation exemption)
If you have claimed other grants or funding previously
You are still eligible for the BUS if you have already claimed funding/grants for other energy efficiency measures such as insulation, doors or windows.
Replacing existing low carbon heating systems
If you already have a low carbon heating system in your property then you will not qualify for the BUS. Only properties which are replacing fossil fuel systems (such as oil, gas or direct electric) are eligible for BUS.
So how does the scheme work?
The grant is applied for by the installer. The value of the grant is discounted from the price you pay.
The UK Government has released a very straightforward step by step of how to make use of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme:
You find an MCS certified installer in your area that is able to carry out the work.
(The MCS quality assurance scheme ensures that installers are competent, and the products they use meet the correct standards).The installer advises you on whether an installation is eligible for a grant.
You agree a quote for the installation.
The installer applies for the grant.
You confirm that the installer is acting on your behalf when you're contacted by Ofgem.