What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government initiative designed to help property owners switch to low-carbon heating systems, particularly heat pumps, by offering upfront grants.
Here’s the important bit:
Grants of £7,500 are available for air-source heat pumps (ASHPs) and ground-source heat pumps (GSHPs)
£5,000 grants are offered for biomass boilers
This scheme applies to properties in England and Wales only
In Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan Scheme offers a mix of grants and interest-free loans for clean heating and energy efficiency improvements.
In Northern Ireland, the Boiler Replacement Scheme is no longer accepting applications, so homeowners should check NI Energy Advice for the latest guidance.
Electricians and installers – here’s where it pays off
This extra funding isn’t just good news, it’s work on the table.
More funding means more customers ready to upgrade
If you’re MCS certified, you’re already in a strong position to win that work
Heat pump skills are only getting more valuable as the UK pushes towards net zero
You’re helping customers reduce running costs—not just swap systems
How can I claim a BUS grant?
To access BUS funding, you’ll need to meet a few key requirements:
You’ll need to be MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) registered
You must be signed up to the BUS scheme
The property must be suitable for a heat pump or biomass system
The system must replace an existing fossil fuel or electric heating system
The new system must meet all heating and hot water demand
Hybrid systems (with a backup boiler) aren’t eligible
Heat pump capacity must be 45kW or below
The property must have a valid EPC and recommended insulation in place (e.g. loft or cavity wall)
Social housing and most new builds aren’t eligible
What’s the application process?
The BUS is installer-led, which means you handle the process for your customer.
Here’s how it works in practice:
Assess the property’s suitability
Apply for the grant through the BUS portal
Wait for Ofgem approval (they’ll contact the customer directly)
Complete the installation within:
3 months for air source heat pumps and biomass
6 months for ground source heat pumps
Claim the grant and deduct it from the customer’s bill
How to make the most of this opportunity
If you’re looking to win more of this work, a few simple things make a big difference:
Keep your MCS certification up to date
Get familiar with the BUS portal—it’ll save you time on jobs
Stay sharp on heat pump installs and product options
Talk to your customers about the grants—many won’t know what’s available
How CEF can support you
If you’re getting into heat pumps—or just doing more of them—we’ve got your back.
Stock you can rely on: Heat pumps ready for next-day delivery
Straightforward advice: Help with specs and choosing the right kit
Training support: Access to MCS-accredited courses
Real people to talk to: Our renewables team is here when you need a hand