In a landmark move that underscores the UK's commitment to a greener future, the government has significantly increased grants for heat pump installations. This represents a pivotal moment for homeowners in England and Wales, offering up to £7,500 to transition to this sustainable heating solution in the most affordable manner possible. As such, this development represents a win for the environment but also a financial boon for families, making heat pumps more affordable than traditional gas boilers. 

The unbeatable advantages of heat pumps

We at Solaris Energy understand that heat pumps are not just a fleeting trend; they are a cornerstone of the UK's strategy to achieve its 2035 climate targets. In fact, in many cases, heat pumps are three to four times more energy-efficient than their gas boiler counterparts.

While the upfront cost of installing a heat pump has been a significant barrier for many homeowners, the government's newly enhanced grant scheme aims to remove this obstacle. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme now offers £7,500 towards the cost of a new heat pump, marking a 50% increase in support for air source models. This makes it one of the most generous schemes in Europe. Estimates suggest that the typical cost of buying and installing a gas boiler ranges between £2,500 and £3,000. So, with the new grant and additional discounts offered by energy suppliers, heat pumps can now be more cost-effective than gas boilers for some households.

The increased grant funding also gives thousands of families the chance to upgrade their heating systems to cleaner alternatives at a lower cost. The scheme has also been extended by three years to 2028, providing more time for people to take advantage of this opportunity. The application process has been streamlined too, with homeowners only needing to agree on a quote with an MCS certified installer who will then handle all the paperwork. Ofgem will then contact the customer to confirm the next steps.

A comprehensive approach to net zero

The government's decision to increase the grants is part of a broader, pragmatic approach to achieving net zero emissions. This strategy aims to alleviate the financial pressures that families have faced in recent years while still meeting international commitments. The government is also making £10 million available through the Heat Pump Ready programme to support innovation in the heat pump sector and further cut installation costs. Additionally, a new campaign called 'Welcome Home to Energy Efficiency' has been launched to help people improve their homes' energy efficiency and lower their bills during the winter months.

Additional support and future plans

The government is also offering support through the £1 billion Great British Insulation Scheme, which can be used alongside the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants. This ensures that even the most energy-inefficient homes can benefit from the latest technology. Moreover, the government has delayed the ban on installing oil and liquified petroleum gas boilers for off-gas-grid homes to 2035, ensuring that homeowners are not burdened with high upgrade costs in a short timeframe.

Discover more about heat pump installation

The UK government's decision to increase heat pump grants is a monumental step forward for both homeowners and the environment. If you're contemplating making the switch, our team of experts is here to guide you through every step, from selecting the right type of heat pump to ensuring a professional installation. Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to make a lasting impact on both your finances and the planet. Contact us today to learn how you can take full advantage of this generous grant scheme.