UK government announces extra funding for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme

The UK government has recently increased funding for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, known as the BUS. This will help improve the energy efficiency of homes.

How much has it allocated?

The government has allocated an additional £30 million for the 2024-2025 financial year. This brings the total funding for the scheme to £180 million, allowing for greater support in transitioning homes to low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps and biomass boilers. The scheme is a part of the government’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote energy efficiency in households across England and Wales. The BUS was originally due to run until 2025, but was extended to 2028. Applications to the BUS have increased by 57 per cent since the grant level was increased in October 2023.

What systems will the grant cover?

For those eligible, the scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 for air or ground source heat pumps and £5,000 for biomass boilers. These measures align with the government’s broader objectives under the Warm Homes Plan, aiming to enhance energy efficiency and affordability for residents. If you’re considering air source heat pumps Cheltenham, they can be obtained from firms such as GSM Limited and they are a great investment for any home.

Do I need planning permission?

Meanwhile, the need for a planning application to put in place a heat pump in England will be eradicated from next year. This means that the rule requiring pumps to be installed at a minimum of one metre from a property’s boundary will no longer be in place. British households using heat pumps consume only half the amount of imported energy compared to those with gas boilers.

What are the benefits of greener heating?

Green heating systems significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based systems like gas or oil boilers. These systems rely on renewable energy sources, reducing dependence on finite fossil fuels. Systems like heat pumps are highly efficient, often producing three to four times more energy than they consume, leading to lower energy bills over time.