The UK’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government initiative aimed at helping homeowners transition from traditional, fossil-fuel heating systems to modern options, such as heat pumps and biomass boilers, which help save considerable money on bills compared to their older counterparts. Launched in 2022, this scheme is part of the UK government’s broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions and meet its net-zero targets. If you're considering upgrading your heating system to a sustainable solution that saves money on energy bills, the BUS scheme could be just what you’re looking for. Here’s how to get started.
What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?
The BUS scheme provides financial support in the form of grants to help homeowners in the United Kingdom switch to low-carbon heating alternatives. You can receive grants of:
£7,500 for air-source heat pumps
£5,000 for biomass boilers
These grants are intended to make the installation of these systems more affordable, encouraging wider adoption and reducing the UK’s reliance on fossil fuels.
Why Change to the BUS?
In a nutshell, the BUS scheme helps you save money in the long term and short term through the installation of modern heating systems. Older alternatives use more energy which means your bills will be higher, but when options such as heat pumps or biomass boilers are installed, you’ll benefit from lower bills. And who doesn’t want more money in their pocket?
The BUS scheme also enables you to contribute to a greener planet, through lower emissions which reduce your carbon footprint. This will contribute to a sustainable future for the generations to come.
Who is Eligible for the BUS?
To be eligible for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you must:
Own your property (either as a homeowner or landlord) in the UK.
Have an existing fossil-fuel heating system (e.g., gas, oil, or electric resistance).
Install a heat pump or biomass boiler in a property that meets minimum energy efficiency standards (demonstrated through a Vibrant Energy Saving Audit).
Steps to Getting Started
Ready to begin your journey towards contributing to a greener UK and reducing your energy bills? Here’s how to get started:
1. We’ll Assess Your Current Heating System
Speak to us to arrange an appointment where we’ll evaluate your current heating system and the benefits of upgrading to a heat pump or biomass boiler. This involves calculating your current energy costs, researching the efficiency of low-carbon alternatives, and considering how the upgrade could impact your home’s value and environmental footprint.
2. Get an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Get a valid EPC from Vibrant. This certificate assesses the energy efficiency of your property and is a key requirement for eligibility. The EPC will highlight any necessary improvements, such as insulation, which you’ll need to address before applying for the grant. The Vibrant Energy Saving Audit provides everything you need to obtain a good energy rating, and an EPC certificate.
3. Apply for the Grant
We’ll make the application process straightforward and will apply for the grant on your behalf. The grant is paid directly to the installer, reducing the amount you’ll need to pay upfront.
4. Enjoy the Benefits
After installation, you can begin enjoying the benefits of your new low-carbon heating system, including lower energy bills and reduced carbon emissions.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is an excellent opportunity to modernise your home’s heating system, and save money on energy bills while contributing to the UK’s environmental goals.
Take the first step today, find out how we can help you upgrade to a more sustainable future.
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