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What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) and Can You Get £7,500 Off a Heat Pump?

If you’re looking to install an air source heat pump there’s never been a better time. Thanks to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), eligible homeowners can now access a £7,500 grant toward the cost of installing a low-carbon heating system.

As an MCS-certified and TrustMark-approved installer, Eclipse Energy is proud to deliver fully accredited heat pump installations through the BUS scheme helping households switch to cleaner, more efficient heating solutions.

What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) and Can You Get £7,500 Off a Heat Pump?/

What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is a government-funded initiative supporting the UK’s push toward net-zero by 2050. It provides upfront grants to property owners replacing traditional fossil fuel heating systems with renewable alternatives, such as air source heat pumps.

  • Homeowners in England and Wales can apply for a £7,500 grant
  • Available for both owner-occupied and private rental homes
  • No need to repay the grant—it’s provided upfront
  • Designed to reduce upfront installation costs

To qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, you must:

  • Own the property you’re applying for – whether it’s your main home, a second home, rental property, or business premises.
  • Be replacing a fossil fuel heating system (like gas, oil, LPG, or electric).

You can still apply even if you’ve already received funding for other energy efficiency improvements, such as insulation.

Important: Once you apply, the heat pump must be installed and commissioned within 120 days, or the grant will no longer be valid.

Why Choose Eclipse Energy as Your Heat Pump Installer?

At Eclipse Energy, we offer end-to-end air source heat pump installations making the switch to renewable heating as simple as possible.

  • MCS-certified & TrustMark-accredited
  •  BUS-approved installer
  • Full project management—from survey to installation
  • Specialists in retrofitting energy-efficient heating systems

We also assist with the BUS application process, handling all the paperwork so you can enjoy a hassle-free transition.

Recent Planning Rules Eased for Heat Pump Installation

In a significant step forward, the government has recently lifted the 1-metre boundary rule for heat pump installations. Previously, heat pumps had to be placed at least one metre from your property boundary. This restriction made installations difficult—especially for smaller homes.

The new planning update means that many properties no longer need planning permission for a heat pump, making it easier and faster to access green heating.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How do I apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

Eclipse Energy will apply for the BUS grant on your behalf as part of the installation process. You simply need to confirm your eligibility and proceed with an approved installer like us.

Can I install a heat pump without planning permission?

Yes, in most cases. Recent changes to planning rules mean you no longer need to meet the 1-metre boundary rule, making installation easier for more homes.

Are heat pumps worth it in the UK?

Absolutely. Heat pumps can reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint. Also air source heat pumps are effective even in sub-zero temperatures. They work by extracting heat from the air, even when it’s cold outside, and are widely used across colder countries like Norway and Sweden.

How long does it take to install a heat pump?

A typical heat pump installation takes 2 to 5 days, depending on the complexity of the system and the readiness of your property.

Can I still get the grant if I’ve used other funding schemes?

Yes, you can still qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme if you’ve previously received help through other schemes like ECO4 or GBIS provided you meet the heat pump eligibility criteria.

Ready to Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

If you’re interested in installing a heat pump with government funding, our expert team is here to help. We’ll confirm your eligibility, survey your property, and provide a tailored solution for your home.

Contact us today to get started or request a free quote from our team of approved heat pump installers.

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