Boiler Upgrade Scheme 2026 (GB)

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a UK government programme administered by Ofgem on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). Launched in May 2022 and extended through to March 2028, it provides upfront capital grants to property owners who replace existing fossil fuel boilers or storage heaters with eligible low-carbon heating systems. The scheme forms a central pillar of the UK's residential heat decarbonisation strategy and its commitment to reaching net zero by 2050.

Eligibility is open to owner-occupiers and private landlords in England and Wales (Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate devolved programmes). The property must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with no outstanding recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation, unless a specific exemption applies. Social housing providers and new-build properties are not eligible under BUS; new builds are instead expected to comply with the Future Homes Standard requirements.

The grant values in 2026 are £7,500 for air source or ground source heat pumps and £5,000 for biomass boilers (the latter restricted to rural or off-grid properties). These grants are paid directly to the MCS-certified installer, who deducts the amount from the customer's invoice — meaning property owners never handle the funds themselves. There is no means-testing; the scheme is available regardless of household income.

To access the grant, property owners must engage an MCS-certified (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) installer registered under the BUS. The installer submits the voucher application to Ofgem on the customer's behalf before installation begins, and redeems it upon completion. Vouchers are valid for three months and can be extended once. Property owners should obtain at least two quotes, verify installer BUS registration, and ensure the EPC is current (dated within ten years) before work commences.

Hinweis: Dieser Beitrag ist kein Ersatz für rechtliche oder steuerliche Beratung. Bitte konsultieren Sie für individuelle Fragen einen Fachexperten.

Umsetzungs-Checkliste

1. Check property eligibility: valid EPC, no outstanding insulation recommendations, England or Wales location
2. Confirm existing heating system qualifies for replacement under BUS rules
3. Identify MCS-certified installers registered with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme via the Ofgem/MCS directory
4. Obtain at least two competitive quotes from BUS-registered installers
5. Ensure installer submits the BUS voucher application to Ofgem BEFORE installation begins
6. Verify voucher approval and expiry date (valid 3 months, one extension possible)
7. Complete installation and confirm installer redeems the voucher with Ofgem post-completion
8. Retain all documentation (EPC, MCS certificate, installer invoices) for at least six years