Boiler grants for new and replacement boilers

Get financial support for a new or replacement boiler

Written by Joe Minihane

Reviewed by Jonathan Leggett

Updated: 21 Aug 2023

In this guide / article

With the cost of a new boiler stretching into thousands, depending on the kind of model you want and any additional work that needs to take place, any kind of financial support is welcome. The good news is that there are numerous grants and schemes run by the government and private providers that offer major discounts, which mean that having a new heating system installed doesn’t have to break the bank.

Government boiler schemes

Boiler Upgrade Scheme

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) was first brought in in 2021 and, in March 2023, it was extended until 2028. It covers England and Wales.

Grants of £5,000 and £6,000 are available and are for the installation of low carbon systems - specifically heat pumps and biomass boilers. Systems that use gas backup are not eligible. Those wanting to apply must have a valid EPC and no demands for new insulation.

You can’t apply directly. Instead, you must go through an installer accredited with the MicroGeneration Certification System, who can claim the grant on your behalf. More details can be found on the government website.

Warmer Homes Scotland

This Scotland only scheme is designed to help ease the costs of energy by making homes more energy efficient.

Applications for new grants open in October 2023 and can be out towards the cost of a new boiler. In order to apply, you’ll need to be a homeowner or private tenant in Scotland that is struggling to pay their energy bills. More details can be found via Warmer Homes Scotland.

Nest

Aimed at Welsh private tenants and homeowners on low incomes, the Nest scheme is designed to make homes more energy efficient, lowering bills in the process.

Successful applicants may be entitled to a new boiler for free. More details can be found on the Nest website.

Can I get a free boiler or help towards a new boiler?

In certain circumstances, you can get a free boiler or help towards a new boiler, especially if you are on a low income or claiming benefits. The ECO scheme (see below) includes new boilers for eligible applicants, as does Nest in Wales and Warmer Homes Scotland.

You can also get discounts directly from suppliers. EDF works with BOXT to offer a brand new, A-rated boiler for £1,795, VAT included, which can be paid back in monthly instalments. The cost includes all parts and installation.

What is the The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme?

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme was first brought in in 2013, with the aim of getting energy companies to help lessen the burden on customers struggling to pay their bills.

The ECO is available in England, Scotland and Wales. While it offers home improvements including new boilers for free, getting onto the scheme requires you to meet a high threshold. It’s available to tenants with permission from their landlord to install a new system as well as homeowners. You’ll need to be receiving specific benefits, including the Warm Home Discount, housing benefit, pension credit savings or child tax benefit. Your home will also have to have an EPC rating of E or below.

You can apply directly via your supplier. Speak with them for any other specific requirements they may have.

What is the Great British Insulation Scheme (ECO+)?

Brought in in April 2023 and due to run until March 2023, the Great British Insulation Scheme, also called ECO+, is designed to help not just those on benefits, but those with an EPC rating of D or lower in council tax bands A to D in England and A to E in Scotland.

However, ECO+ is only designed to help with one form of insulation in the home, ranging from solid wall and cavity wall insulation to loft insulation. Boiler grants and installation are not available.