Boiler Upgrade Scheme 2026 - Complete Guide to the £7,500 Heat Pump Grant
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides £7,500 towards the cost of a heat pump in England and Wales. Here's everything you need to know about eligibility, applying, and what can go wrong.
BUS grant key facts
Who is eligible for the BUS grant?
To qualify for the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant, you must meet all of the following criteria:
- Property in England or Wales
- You own the property (or have landlord consent)
- Valid EPC issued within last 10 years
- Current heating uses fossil fuels (gas, oil, LPG)
- Not a new-build (unless self-build)
- MCS-certified installer must apply on your behalf
Who does NOT qualify?
- Scotland (use Home Energy Scotland instead)
- Northern Ireland (separate schemes)
- Social housing
- Electric storage heating primary system
- Already has a heat pump
- Hybrid setups (gas + heat pump)
How to apply for the BUS grant
Unlike some grants, you cannot apply for BUS directly. Your MCS-certified installer applies on your behalf. Here's how the process works:
What about Scotland and Northern Ireland?
BUS only covers England and Wales. Scottish homeowners should contact Home Energy Scotland (up to £7,500 cashback + £7,500 interest-free loan). Northern Ireland has separate schemes administered by the Department for the Economy.
Additional grants and support
BUS is not the only support available:
Free installation for low-income households on qualifying benefits (ending Dec 2026)
Up to £25,000 for low-income households (off-gas, D-G EPC)
0% VAT on installation until March 2027
Up to £7,500 cashback + £7,500 loan for Scottish homeowners
UK grant schemes at a glance
| Scheme | Region | Max amount |
|---|---|---|
| Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) | England, Wales | £7,500 |
| Home Energy Scotland Grant | Scotland | £7,500 |
| ECO4 | England, Scotland, Wales | £25,000 |
| Warm Homes Local Grant | England | £25,000 |
Check if you're eligible
Take our 5-question checker to find out if you qualify for the £7,500 grant.
Check eligibility nowFrequently asked questions
Important disclaimer
heatpumpcompared.co.uk is editorially independent and not affiliated with any heat pump manufacturer or installer. We do not provide heating advice. Prices, specifications, SCOP ratings and grant amounts are correct as of April 2026 but are subject to change. Always commission a professional heat loss survey before purchasing a heat pump system.