The UK’s heating sector is going through one of its biggest transformations in decades. With rising energy bills, strict net-zero targets, and the need for cleaner technologies, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) has become a central focus for households, installers, and policymakers. But what does the future of BUS really look like? And more importantly—how can homeowners and landlords make the most of it before it changes again?
At Reliant Energy Solutions, we work daily with families across London, Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, and Glasgow, guiding them through energy grant applications, boiler replacements, and renewable heating systems.
This blog explains where the BUS is heading, what updates are expected in 2025 and beyond, and how you can benefit before deadlines or policy shifts.
Why the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Exists
The BUS was introduced by the UK government in 2022 to encourage households to replace inefficient gas or oil boilers with low-carbon alternatives such as:
- Air source heat pumps (ASHPs)
- Ground source heat pumps (GSHPs)
- Biomass boilers (in rural areas with no gas grid)
The scheme provides a grant of £7,500 for heat pumps and £5,000 for biomass boilers, directly reducing upfront installation costs.
In places like Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, where rural homes depend heavily on oil and LPG, this grant has been a game-changer. Instead of facing £12,000–£15,000 installation costs, homeowners can bring the price down to a more manageable level.
Current Challenges with BUS
While the scheme is well-intentioned, homeowners often face several barriers:
- High upfront costs – Even after the grant, heat pumps may still cost £5,000–£8,000.
- Installer shortages – Accredited engineers are limited, especially in smaller towns like Swansea, Aberdeen, and York.
- Property suitability – Old Victorian houses in Manchester or Leeds may need insulation upgrades before heat pumps work efficiently.
- Awareness gap – Many households simply don’t know they qualify.
Who Can Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
At Reliant Energy Solutions, most of our calls come from homeowners who say: “I didn’t know this grant applied to me.” The truth is—if you own your home in England or Wales, you’re likely eligible.
If you’re considering replacing your boiler in the next 2–3 years, here’s how to position yourself for maximum savings:
Check Eligibility Early
Many homeowners in Cardiff, Glasgow, and Bristol wrongly assume BUS is only for detached houses. Flats, bungalows, and semi-detached homes can also qualify.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Before installing a heat pump, upgrade insulation. Adding loft insulation in Manchester, or double glazing in Leicester, could improve your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) making BUS approval faster.
Compare Installers
Accredited installers under MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) are required for BUS. In cities like London, competition is high, so quotes vary. Reliant Energy Solutions helps customers shortlist trusted local engineers.
Act Before Policy Changes
So, if you’re living in an older property in Bristol, Liverpool, or rural Wales, there’s a good chance you’ll qualify.
Check your eligibility today with Reliant Energy Solutions.
How Reliant Energy Solutions Helps?
Navigating grants can feel overwhelming. That’s why Reliant Energy Solutions simplifies the process:
- Free eligibility checks for BUS and ECO4 grants
- Guidance on insulation and EPC improvements
- Connecting homeowners to trusted local installers
- End-to-end support: from paperwork to installation
Whether you’re in London, Cardiff, Manchester, or Edinburgh, we ensure you don’t miss out on the financial and environmental benefits of BUS.
How Much Support Can You Get?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme works by providing a voucher towards the cost of supply and installation:
- £7,500 for air source heat pumps (ASHPs)
- £7,500 for ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) (including water source)
- £5,000 for biomass boilers (for properties off the gas grid)
This means instead of paying £10,000–£15,000 upfront, you could install a heat pump for as little as £3,000–£5,000.
What’s Included in the Scheme?
The BUS covers the cost of the heating system and professional installation by an MCS-certified installer. Reliant Energy Solutions ensures that all installations meet government standards so that your grant is guaranteed.
The grant doesn’t cover:
- Radiator upgrade
- Home insulation
- Minor property alterations
But we often advise homeowners in Leeds, Newcastle, and Birmingham to combine BUS with insulation grants (like ECO4 or the Great British Insulation Scheme) for maximum savings.
Heat Pump Options Under BUS
Air Source Heat Pumps
These extract heat from the outside air even in winter and convert it into energy to warm your home and hot water.
- Typical cost: £10,000
- After BUS grant: £2,500–£5,000
- Best for: Semi-detached homes in cities like Manchester or Leicester.
Ground Source Heat Pumps
These use underground pipes to draw natural heat from the earth. They’re more efficient long term but require more installation work.
- Typical cost: £15,000
- After BUS grant: £7,500–£9,000
- Best for: Rural homes with large gardens in Wales or Scotland.
Real-Life Impact of BUS
“We switched from LPG in our Bangor home to an air source heat pump with BUS support. Before, we could barely afford heating all day now our bills are lower and the house is warm round the clock.”
— John, Bangor, Wales
Stories like John’s highlight how BUS is not just about energy it’s about making homes healthier and more affordable to live in.
Why Consider Applying Now?
Government schemes don’t last forever. The Green Homes Grant was pulled unexpectedly, leaving many households without support. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is currently open until 2028, but with demand rising, funds could run out sooner.
Here’s why you shouldn’t wait:
- Lock in funding before policy changes
- Future-proof your home against gas boiler bans (set for 2035)
- Cut energy bills and add value to your property
Apply with Reliant Energy Solutions today to secure your BUS voucher before it’s too late.
Final Thoughts
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is one of the best opportunities for UK homeowners to transition to cleaner, renewable heating while saving thousands of pounds.
At Reliant Energy Solutions, we make the process stress-free checking your eligibility, guiding you through paperwork, and connecting you with certified local installers. Don’t wait until grants run out. Check your eligibility today and start your journey towards a warmer, greener, and more affordable home.
