What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a UK government initiative designed to encourage homeowners to replace outdated, inefficient heating systems with modern, low-carbon alternatives. The scheme provides financial incentives to support the installation of heat pumps and biomass boilers, aligning with the UK’s Net Zero 2050 targets. It aims to reduce carbon emissions from residential heating, which accounts for a significant portion of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions.

Synonym(s): Boiler Replacement Scheme, Heating Upgrade Scheme

Explanation:

The BUS is part of the UK’s broader strategy to decarbonise domestic heating. It targets households looking to upgrade their heating systems to more sustainable options. The scheme offers grants of up to £7,500 towards the cost of installing:

  • Air Source Heat Pumps (ASHPs)
  • Ground Source Heat Pumps (GSHPs)
  • Biomass Boilers

These technologies are more energy-efficient than traditional gas or oil boilers and contribute to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The scheme is administered by Ofgem and is available to homeowners in England and Wales.

Practical Examples:

  1. A homeowner in Manchester replaces their old gas boiler with an air source heat pump, receiving a £6,000 grant under the BUS.
  2. A rural household in Wales installs a biomass boiler, funded partly by the BUS grant, to reduce their carbon footprint and heating costs.

Related Terms:

  1. Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP): A device that extracts heat from the outside air to provide heating and hot water for a home.
  2. Ground Source Heat Pump (GSHP): A system that uses heat from the ground to heat buildings and water.
  3. Biomass Boiler: A heating system that burns organic materials (e.g., wood pellets) to produce heat.
  4. Building Regulations Part L: UK regulations that set standards for the energy efficiency of buildings, including heating systems.
  5. Approved Document O: Guidance on overheating in residential buildings, relevant when upgrading heating systems.
  6. Net Zero 2050: The UK’s legally binding target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
  7. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): A document that rates the energy efficiency of a property, often required for BUS eligibility.