Households could claim up to £10,000 in energy grants thanks to the Labour Government’s decision to expand a popular savings scheme.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme will now encompass air-to-air heat pumps and heat batteries, introducing £2,500 grants for these technologies, on top of the existing £7,500 in heat pump energy support.
This development represents the first occasion that air-conditioning systems have qualified for Governmental financial support.
The expanded programme enables households to access funding for technology that provides warmth during winter months whilst offering cooling capabilities in summer.
Households could claim up to £10,000 via the Boiler Upgrade Scheme
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These dual-function systems operate without relying on fossil fuels. All households can access these grants, which constitute a component of the Government’s £13.2billion Warm Homes Plan aimed at reducing energy costs for five million families across Britain.
Installation expenses for air-to-air heat pumps in flats or smaller properties typically amount to approximately £4,500, with the grant potentially covering the majority of initial costs.
Heat batteries, which also qualify for the £2,500 discount, utilise electricity to accumulate thermal energy overnight for daytime release.
These storage systems can provide heating and occasionally hot water when required.
The scheme previously provided £7,500 grants exclusively for air source and ground source heat pumps designed for winter heating.
Furthermore, the government has additionally initiated a consultation examining various clean heating alternatives, including infrared panels, storage heaters, solid biomass boilers utilising agricultural waste, and renewable liquid fuels.
September marked a record-breaking month for heat pump applications, demonstrating exceptional public interest in clean heating solutions.
Minister for Energy Consumers Martin McCluskey stated: “Air-to-air heat pumps offer the best of both worlds keeping you warm in winter while cooling you down when summer comes along.”
He emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring widespread access to these benefits, particularly for residents in flats or smaller properties lacking central heating systems.
“With heat pumps more popular than ever, we want to make sure as many people as possible can benefit, especially those in flats or small homes without central heating, so they have greater choice when upgrading their property,” Mr McCluskey added
Charlotte Lee, the chief executive of the Heat Pump Association, welcomed the scheme’s expansion, noting its crucial role in facilitating low-carbon heating transitions and developing Britain’s supply chain.
She emphasised that maintaining success requires substantial budget allocation through the Warm Homes Plan.
Andrew Sissons from Nesta’s sustainable future mission highlighted the importance of financial assistance for sustainable home temperature management amid climate warming.
“The expansion of the BUS grant will help many households go green while staying comfortable all year,” he said.
Energy Saving Trust Policy Manager Abigail Ward praised the announcement for making low-carbon technologies more accessible, while Heat Geek’s Aadil Qureshi described the transition as essential for achieving reduced bills and enhanced comfort.