If you have been considering replacing your existing heating system with a heat pump, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme could make the initial cost considerably more manageable.

The scheme provides grants towards eligible low-carbon heating installations in England and Wales. Following changes introduced in 2026, qualifying properties may be eligible for a grant of between £2,500 and £9,000, depending on the type of system being installed and the heating system it replaces.

Other eligibility conditions apply. The installation must generally replace an existing fossil-fuel or electric heating system, meet the scheme’s technical requirements and not receive other public funding towards the same costs.

Restrictions also apply to new-build properties, social housing and hybrid heating systems, so eligibility should always be confirmed before work begins.

Who can receive the £9,000 heat pump grant?

The higher £9,000 grant is not available to every property currently using oil or LPG heating.

To qualify, the property must be off the gas grid and the existing heating system being replaced must be fuelled by oil or liquefied petroleum gas, commonly known as LPG. The replacement must be an eligible air source heat pump or ground-source heat pump.

This higher grant rate became available on 21 July 2026 and is currently due to remain available until 31 March 2027.

Do I need an Energy Performance Certificate?

A valid Energy Performance Certificate, commonly known as an EPC, is no longer required for every Boiler Upgrade Scheme application.

If the property has a valid EPC, the certificate number must be included with the application. If the property does not have a valid EPC, the installer must provide alternative evidence to demonstrate eligibility. Ofgem may request evidence relating to the property’s energy supply, fuel type and the heating system being replaced.

Although an EPC may not always be required, improving insulation and reducing heat loss can still help a heat pump operate more efficiently and may improve comfort and running costs.

How does the application work?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is installer-led. This means an MCS-certified installer applies for the grant voucher on behalf of the property owner.

After the application is submitted, Ofgem contacts the property owner to confirm that they consent to the application and that the relevant eligibility details are correct. The installer can proceed once the voucher has been approved.

The full value of the grant must be shown as an upfront discount on the installer’s quote and invoice. Once the system has been installed, commissioned and certified, the installer redeems the voucher and receives the grant payment from Ofgem.

Is a heat pump suitable for my property?

Heat pumps can work in many different types of homes and eligible commercial properties, but the system must be designed around the building.

Factors including heat loss, insulation, available outdoor space, existing radiators or underfloor heating and hot-water requirements all need to be considered.

A professional assessment will help determine whether a heat pump is suitable, which type and size of system is needed and whether any improvements should be completed before installation.

Greenlinc Renewables installs renewable heating systems throughout Lincolnshire and its surrounding service areas.

How long does the process take?

Once a Boiler Upgrade Scheme voucher has been approved, the installer will normally have three months to complete most eligible installations. Ground-source heat-pump installations generally have a six-month voucher period because they can involve more extensive work.

The installation and voucher redemption must be completed within the applicable deadline. Your installer should explain the expected timescale and keep you updated throughout the process.

Looking after your heat pump

Once installed, regular maintenance can help keep a heat pump operating efficiently and identify potential issues before they develop into costly problems.

Greenlinc provides ongoing heat-pump servicing and repairs for air-source and ground-source systems across Lincolnshire.

Information checked on 14 September 2026. Grant amounts, eligibility requirements and scheme rules can change. Greenlinc Renewables will confirm the current requirements when assessing your property. You can also check the latest Boiler Upgrade Scheme information from Ofgem.