Boiler Upgrade Plan 2026-2027: Is Your Home Eligible for a Grant?
- 1. What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme UK and How Does It Work?
- 2. Boiler Upgrade Scheme Eligibility and Installation Requirements
- Is There a Free Boiler Upgrade Scheme? Understanding the Costs
- 3. Managing Electricity Demand After Switching to a Heat Pump
- 4. Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Worth It for UK Homes?
- Conclusion: Making the Most of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in 2026-2027
- FAQ
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme 2026-2027 is designed to support qualifying households in the UK in reducing the initial costs when changing from traditional boilers to low-carbon heating options, such as heat pumps. Homeowners need to know the requirements and grants available, as well as the installation process, to be able to make the right choice while cutting the heating expenses for years to come.
As heating depends more on electricity, combining renewable energy with efficient power solutions helps households manage energy consumption during cold seasons.
1. What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme UK and How Does It Work?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is an initiative launched by the UK government to motivate homeowners to replace conventional heating systems based on fossil fuels with zero-emission technologies, such as heat pumps. Through this scheme, the upfront costs of installations are significantly reduced, paving the way for householders to have access to more energy-efficient heating and facilitating the process of making homes in the UK less carbon-intensive.
If you are planning to upgrade your heating system in the year 2026–2027, understanding the grants available, eligibility, and installation is crucial.
What Is the Government Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The government boiler upgrade scheme is an initiative aimed at providing financial help for certain renewable heating systems in both England and Wales. The aim of the scheme is to replace standard gas and oil boilers with heating solutions that utilize technologies such as air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps. This means that instead of the generation of heat as before through the burning of fuels, which is how the traditional boilers worked, renewable systems using electricity for the transfer of heat will now be employed. In the case of eligible homes, households can receive grants that should cover a significant portion of the cost of the necessary upgrade.
The actual grant value offered depends on the particular technology chosen under the scheme and its conditions. The scheme can be administered through the accredited installer who submits the grant application on behalf of the homeowner.
How Much Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Grant?
The boiler upgrade scheme provides grants to lower the initial financial burden associated with installing eligible heat pumps. The grants available provide:
£7,500 to support installation of qualifying air-source heat pumps.
£7,500 to assist with the installation of ground-source heat pumps.
£5,000 for installing biomass boilers subject to certain criteria.
Before submitting a 2026–2027 application, applicants are advised to check grants and grant eligibility criteria in the latest official documentation.
Generally, the grant is used towards installation costs rather than for all costs incurred, and the applicant should obtain a detailed, general estimate from an accredited installer beforehand.
Note: According to Ofgem, qualifying off gas grid properties can benefit from this £9,000 grant and receive it from 21 July 2026 until 31 March 2027
Who Can Apply for the UK Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The scheme is designed mainly for property owners who want to replace an existing fossil-fuel heating system with a qualifying low-carbon heating solution. Applicants may be:
Homeowners looking to upgrade their main residence or another qualifying property.
Private landlords are looking to increase heating efficiencies in rental property.
Self-builders who satisfy the requirements of the scheme.
Applicants must meet the property eligibility criteria and use a certified installer. Normally, tenants cannot apply by themselves as property owners, thus renters who are interested in a heat pump should check with the landlord.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme Eligibility Requirements
Before proceeding with heat pump installation, check whether the premises and the heating system proposed conform to the scheme's rules. In general, the following must be ensured:
The applicant should have the relevant ownership or qualifying property status.
The premises should have an existing heating system powered by fossil fuel or electricity.
The technology proposed should be covered by the scheme.
The work should be performed by an eligible installer.
The building should be provided with a valid EPC following the relevant recommendations and exemptions.
However, meeting these conditions does not mean that the application will automatically be approved. Homeowners have to make sure to check the latest requirements with their installers and the official documentation related to the scheme beforehand.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme Scotland: Does It Apply?
People commonly search for the terms “Boiler Upgrade Scheme Scotland.” However, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, which is described above by the UK government, only covers properties that are eligible in England and Wales, and not Scotland. Hence, if you live in Scotland, you have to look for help through the programs offered by the Scottish government for energy efficiency and check their eligibility, funding, and application process as they may differ.
Before searching for quotes, it is important for homeowners to check for the relevant national scheme so as to avoid any confusion regarding the support available for their properties.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme for Landlords: What to Know
Private property owners can take advantage of the boiler upgrade scheme, which is available for rental units in England and Wales. The placement of a heat pump may be complementary to any major renovation plans. It could aid in diminishing the use of fossil fuels and improve the energy efficiency of a given building.
Landlords must familiarize themselves with property ownership, eligible properties, installation certifications, and other details. It is vital to look into insulation, heat distribution, and electricity consumption levels.
Going to the next part: knowing about the scheme is not enough. The applicants need to check all the details before applying for the grant, find out which heating systems are covered, and know how the application process works. The succeeding part provides explanations about the requirements and the procedure of applying under Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
2. Boiler Upgrade Scheme Eligibility and Installation Requirements
When applying for the boiler upgrade scheme UK, it is important for homeowners and landlords to know what kinds of heating systems that are considered eligible and what qualifications their houses need to meet for the grant to be approved. Knowing what prerequisites to qualify for will help with saving a lot of money when switching to a low-carbon heating system from a conventional fossil fuel boiler. Nevertheless, whether the grant is approved will largely depend on the condition of the particular property, the chosen installation option and the current conditions of the scheme.
If a household intends to upgrade the heating system in 2026-2027, it will be much easier to compare the quotations of installers, estimate the amount of money to be saved and consider the electricity demand involved in the use of the heat-pump heating system in case of finding out these requisites in advance.
Which Heating Systems Qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The boiler upgrade scheme enables eligible low-carbon heating system installations to occur instead of simply replacing an old gas boiler with a new boiler. Eligible technologies and grant amounts are provided according to the present scheme rules.
There are the following systems which can be used:
Air-source heat pumps. These systems can utilize the heat from outside air to warm up the house and also the water supply.
Ground-source heat pumps. These systems can extract heat from the ground and deliver it to the house heating system.
Eligible biomass boilers. There are certain requirements that should be met in terms of property as well as its location.
Availability of grants varies depending on technology and eligibility. Moreover, an approved installer should assess the property before system selection as he will inspect the property, existing heating equipment, insulation, and heat distribution needs.
Although a heat pump can minimize the dependence on fossil fuel-based systems, its electricity consumption will depend upon many factors such as outdoor temperature, insulation, system design, and heating habits in the household. By understanding the factors mentioned above, customers are able to plan regarding installation and operation usage.
Property and Installation Requirements
Not every house falls under the gov boiler upgrade scheme. The property along with the installations needs to meet all the necessary criteria that should be followed before making an appointment for any services.
It is completely necessary to verify the following information:
Ownership of the property: The applicant must comply with the scheme’s ownership or qualifying property conditions.
Existing heating installation: The property should meet the scheme’s requirements regarding the current heating system.
Eligible installation: The heat pump or any other eligible technology needs to meet the technical requirements related to corresponding technical issues.
Approved installer: The installations should be implemented through an installer who has the right to take part in the scheme.
Energy performance certificate (EPC): The EPC and any necessary insulation recommendations and exemptions must be checked beforehand.
Installation estimation: Make sure that he knows the final price, and the deduction of the grant, together with any works not covered by the grant.
These assessments are vital for older homes, buildings with insufficient insulation, and properties in need of radiator updating or other improvements to the heating system. Moreover, the costs of improvements may influence the price of the final installation, regardless of whether the house qualifies for grants.
It is also important to consider the expenses of using electricity in winter for the achieved energy savings provided by the heat pump. Improving insulation, buying a properly sized unit, and analyzing the possible rates of electricity can be very helpful.
How to Apply for a Boiler Upgrade Scheme Grant
Applying for boiler upgrade scheme grant is simple, as any application will be submitted by an authorized heating installer. Property owners do not need to conduct the application process themselves.
To start the process:
Verify eligibility: Ensure that your property and chosen heating system qualify.
Locate a qualified installer: Find the approved installer listed in the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).
Ask for quotes: Compare the prices for the installation of the heating system, confirming that the grant is presented as a discount in that quote.
Agree to application submission: The installer will submit the application to Ofgem after obtaining your agreement to proceed with the application.
Carry on with installation: If Ofgem approves the deal, you will have to wait for the installation process to be over.
Confirm grant redemption: After completing the commissioning of the system, the installer will send necessary documents to complete the grant redemption.
Note: Owners of properties should respond to Ofgem's consent request, within 14 calendar days, or the application could be rejected, Ofgem says. The installer is also required to comply with the requirements of the scheme before the grant can be paid.
Click on the Ofgem Boiler Upgrade Scheme guidance for property owners.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme Login: Where to Manage Your Application
If you’re looking for the boiler upgrade scheme login, you should be aware that Ofgem’s online application portal is mainly available to registered installers, who are responsible for processing voucher applications and vouchers redeeming.
Homeowners do not necessarily have to establish their own BUS account. Instead, they get in touch with Ofgem, who provide them with consent and eligibility information during the application process.
The main portal of the boiler upgrade scheme is available for installers to submit applications, monitor the status of the vouchers, and redeem them.
Note: If you are a homeowner awaiting updates, contact your installers first or use the contact details from the official page of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme by Ofgem.
Ofgem Boiler Upgrade Scheme: What Homeowners Should Know
The boiler upgrade scheme (BUS) is managed by Ofgem for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, which processes applications for grant vouchers, ascertains eligibility criteria, and pays grants to successful installers. However, this department is responsible for the overall policies and regulations regarding the BUS.
If you are a property owner, here is what you should know:
The grant acts as a discount which is deducted from the cost of installation.
The installer takes care of the application process.
This does not mean that your quotation is approved.
There could be other costs associated with the upgrade process of the heating system.
Note: To avoid using obsolete information, read the official Ofgem Boiler Upgrade Scheme website to learn about the latest grant amounts, conditions, and other information.
Is There a Free Boiler Upgrade Scheme? Understanding the Costs
The free boiler upgrade scheme is designed to support qualifying homeowners living in England and Wales by reducing the upfront costs associated with the installation of low-carbon heating. Nevertheless, it is not a guarantee of free boiler replacement. The grant amount is deducted from the final price of the installation; the homeowner is responsible for payment of the balance owed.
Eligible heating system | Government grant |
Air-to-water heat pump | £7,500 |
Ground-source heat pump | £7,500 |
Water-source heat pump | £7,500 |
Qualifying off-gas-grid heat pump | £9,000 |
Biomass boiler | £5,000 |
Air-to-air heat pump (residential properties) | £2,500 |
Data source: Official Ofgem Boiler Upgrade Scheme Grant amounts. The £9,000 grant for off-gas-grid properties is available until 31 March 2027. Eligibility conditions apply.
Example of Remaining Cost:
Installation cost | Grant | Remaining cost |
£12,000 | £7,500 | £4,500 |
This is an example only, not an installed price. The actual costs will depend on property, system and installation specifications.
Note: Please see the official GOV.UK Boiler Upgrade Scheme guide for the most up to date eligibility criteria and application information.
3. Managing Electricity Demand After Switching to a Heat Pump
The shift from a gas or oil-based boiler to an electric heat pump not only helps cut down the dependency on fossil fuel sources but also alters the pattern of using electricity in homes. It is important to understand the new approach to electricity so that one can plan heating improvements, estimate costs, and look into better ways of utilizing renewable energy.
Homeowners can achieve greater control of their electricity consumption by combining the two elements: effective heating solutions with appropriate energy management systems.
How Heat Pumps Can Change Household Electricity Use
Rather than generating heat by burning fuels like standard boilers, electric heat pumps work by pulling heat from either outside air or the ground in order to warm a house. Electricity is needed to run the pumps, but depending on how efficient the unit is, it can deliver multiple heat units from consuming one unit of electricity. In fact, electricity usage depends on various factors, including the air pump size, house insulation, outside climate, thermostat settings, and household hot-water needs.
A house that is well insulated and has size-appropriate pumps helps manage energy consumption with ease. Thus, homeowners should think about other things apart from the initial cost of installing electric heat pumps.
Managing Higher Electricity Demand During Cold Weather
The heat pump will have to put in extra effort to heat the home during colder conditions. Extra heating will lead to increased consumption of electricity, especially at times of very cold weather or high demand for heat. Poorly insulated homes or those with non-optimised heating controls can consume even more electrical energy.
There are a number of useful techniques which help to manage demand, such as those listed below:
Improve insulation: Minimise heat loss through roofs, walls, floors, windows, and doors.
Optimise heating controls: Set the right desire temperatures and heating timetable instead of changing temperature drastically from too high to too low every time.
Evaluate electricity tariffs: Learn the different tariffs available to determine whether it makes sense to use cheaper electricity.
Track how much energy you use throughout the household: Monitoring electricity consumption will help you see how much electricity is being used for heating purposes.
Think about energy storage: In case having a battery is possible, some solar electricity or electricity during certain periods can be stored for later use.
The above mentioned techniques can help you manage consumption of electrical energy but it doesn’t mean that you will consume less energy at all
Using Solar Power and Battery Storage for Home Energy Needs
In the daylight hours, solar panels are capable of generating electricity, which helps households power appliances as well as any electrical equipment that requires electricity to operate. If more electricity is generated than what is being used immediately, this excess electricity can be stored in a battery storage system for future use. It can be used at nighttime when the sun is not shining, but the household needs electricity for its appliances.
This can be beneficial to households that need electric heating, although it should be noted that winter solar generation happens to be the lowest when heating demand from electric systems is typically highest. Before purchasing the system, one must think about battery capacity, charging methods, and electricity consumption of the household.
Energy management can be extended beyond heating in homes. For instance, households with garden offices, workstations, garages, or garden equipment may utilize stored electricity better if their devices have more independence in how electricity is consumed.
If you are a homeowner looking for ways to lower your electric bills while installing a heat-pump, home energy storage is one option. The EcoFlow STREAM 5000 series offers battery-based energy management solutions to consider when working out how to make use of the available energy, whether for home energy use or compatible outdoor solutions. Here are some alternative ways of storage and management of power.
EcoFlow STREAM 5000 Solar Battery 5kWh Battery for Flexible Energy Storage
EcoFlow STREAM AC 5000 for Smarter Household Power Management
Using Stored Energy for Outdoor Living and Backup Power
Household energy storage can provide flexibility beyond the confines of normal household energy consumption. Homeowners with offices within gardens, workshops outside the house, and outdoor entertainment areas can access stored energy when there is no access to adequate energy from the solar system or when the solar system is not producing enough energy. Depending on the battery storage system type and its configuration, the battery could power individual circuits in a home in case of blackout, provided the system is operating as a backup.
For example, electricity stored by households during the day could be used later for powering lights, laptops, routers, or any other compatible devices. In winter, stored energy can also satisfy some household energy needs, although the quantity available for heating purposes will depend on battery capacity, battery charging conditions, and the quantity of household energy consumed. The energy storage system does not necessarily mean the entire home is operated in backup mode; it also requires checking its parameters for delivering the required amount of energy and its compatibility.
Households wishing to use electricity wisely must start looking for a suitable energy store. The EcoFlow STREAM 5000 series provides potential solutions to households amenable to using
4. Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Worth It for UK Homes?
The boiler upgrade scheme aims to facilitate the transition from an ordinary boiler to a renewable energy heating system. This initiative makes it easier for homeowners in the UK to finance the installation of a renewable energy heating unit by lowering the initial expenses involved in putting the heating unit into action. However, this visit will only make sense if a particular property has enough insulation in place, and if the cost of installation and prices for energy are favorable.
Potential Upfront Cost Savings
The financial aid available for qualifying installations is one of the greatest advantages of the Boiler Upgrade Program. The grant is removed from the price of the installation service, resulting in the diminished cost the homeowner would have to cover upfront.
To exemplify, if it costs £12,000 to install a heat pump, and the client qualifies for a lot of grant support, they still are estimated to pay only £4,500 and additional costs above that, if there are any.
It is advisable to seek quotations from merchants and check if they are going to face additional expenses in terms of radiator replacements or insulation improvements later on.
Heat Pumps and Long-Term Heating Costs
Heat pumps are capable of generating multiple units of heat for a single unit of electricity consumed; however, the actual operating expenses will vary based on system efficiency, electricity costs, insulation, and heating demand. A UK cost comparison is provided in the table below.
Heating cost factor | Illustrative estimate |
Heat pump electricity use | 3,000 kWh/year |
Electricity price assumption | £0.25/kWh |
Estimated annual running cost | £750/year |
Monthly average | £62.50/month |
Example forecast only and does not represent the official forecast for Ofgem. Consumption and costs are dependent on the property and the type of heating system used. Electricity price is an illustrative price, not a current tariff.
Note: Use the Ofgem energy price cap information to establish the rates to allow for personalised estimates, and to compare them with the electricity consumption of a heat-pump.
Combining a Heat Pump With Home Energy Storage
There are different methods for managing energy consumption at home and utilizing electricity more efficiently in our homes as we rely more on it for heating purposes. One of such methods is the use of a storage battery. A battery can store excess energy generated by solar power systems during the day for future use preselected periods of energy cost.
For example, at daytime excess energy can be used for nighttime lighting, electric appliances or any other device with the help of a storage battery. Also, depending on how it is configured, a battery can be used for other backups.
The EcoFlow STREAM 5000 series is one of the examples of a home battery system. The output and installation specifications can vary depending on the particular model.
Storage batteries are not mandatory for getting grants for the boiler upgrade scheme, but it may reduce the total cost of energy. It depends on solar power production availability and battery performance, etc. Homeowners need to analyze these elements independently from the costs of heat pump installation.
What to Consider Before Applying for the Scheme
The first step of applying for the boiler upgrade scheme is to evaluate if the installation is compatible with the property, personal budget, and energy requirements in the future.
The following key points should be taken into consideration:
Eligibility: Make sure the property, applicant, and intended heating system are approved.
Grant status: Check the grant amount and necessary terms in official sources.
Expenses: Ask for an estimate itemizing the grant and all other costs.
Effectiveness: Assess the state of insulating materials, radiators, and heat losses.
Cost of operation: Compare the energy expenditure of the heat pump with current heating costs at realistic energy prices.
Electricity usage: Think about potential options, such as solar panels, a battery, or a proper tariff.
Plans for the future: Determine when you plan to vacate the property and calculate whether the initial investment is worth it.
In general, the boiler upgrade scheme provides homeowners with the possibility of cutting down on upfront expenses when changing to low-carbon heating. In the end, the true benefit of using the scheme depends on the building and its energy needs.
A comparative analysis of the grant available under the scheme against the costs of installation, ongoing costs, and energy-saving systems will allow homeowners to make a better assessment of the chances of upgrading their heating in 2026-2027.
Conclusion: Making the Most of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in 2026-2027
The boiler upgrade scheme for the years 2026–2027 provides eligible property owners the chance to lessen the price of converting from traditional fossil-fuel heating systems to low-carbon heat pumps. Homeowners can determine how much assistance they will be able to receive, whether they meet the conditions and compare the quotes for the installation of heat pump systems.
Nonetheless, this is not the only positive aspect related to the introduction of heat pumps and applicable energy-management solutions. By improving insulation, selecting the right size of the pump and evaluating the price of electricity incentives, citizens will be able to effectively use energy all year round.
If a person is considering making any commitments towards installing the heat pump, it is advisable to check the exact requirements provided on the official website of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme in the UK.
FAQ
Who is eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant?
The boiler upgrade scheme is accessible for property owners in England and Wales who want to have qualifying low-carbon heating systems installed by an approved engineer. Candidates must satisfy the eligibility conditions regarding property, technology, and installation. It is advisable to consult the official guidelines before submitting your application.
Is there a free boiler upgrade scheme in the UK?
The boiler upgrade scheme is not a free boiler replacement scheme. This scheme only provides grants for qualifying low-carbon technology installations, while the rest of the costs should be covered by the homeowner. Some other energy-saving assistance programs may be available for eligible households in some cases.
How do I access the Boiler Upgrade Scheme login?
The online application portal is designed for installers as they apply for grants and handle vouchers. Homeowners usually work with their installers instead of creating their accounts and they only respond to the consent request from Ofgem.
For more official information about rewards, read the Ofgem Boiler Upgrade Scheme guide
Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme run by Ofgem?
Ofgem manages the boiler upgrade scheme on behalf of its parent departments, the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero. It is responsible for managing grants on the scheme’s behalf. More information on the scheme can be found here.
How much can I get from the government Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The grant depends on the technology of heating used. Generally, grants of the following amounts can be received £7,500 for air-source heat pumps and ground-source heating systems. For more information, check the grant policy instructions from the GOV.UK page and find out the latest information in relation to the grants for 2026-2027.