Maximising UK Heat Pump Grants in 2026: Funding for Eco-Friendly Heating Solutions

Introduction

Feeling the pinch from rising energy bills? You’re not alone. Traditional boilers guzzle gas, push up costs and ramp up carbon emissions. Enter heat pumps: they’re efficient, eco-friendly and, thanks to government support, more affordable than ever.

In 2026, the boiler upgrade scheme is centre stage. Combined with other grants, it can slash the installation cost of an air source heat pump by thousands. Let’s dive into the world of UK funding, compare it with Canadian initiatives, and show you how The Heat Pumps UK can guide your eco-friendly upgrade.

Why the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Matters

You’ve probably heard of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) – that ran out in 2022. Replacing it is the boiler upgrade scheme, which encourages homeowners to swap gas or oil boilers for low-carbon heat pumps.

Here’s the gist:

• Funding available: up to £7,500 per household.
• Eligibility: owner-occupied or landlord properties.
• Types of systems: air source and ground source heat pumps.
• Application window: from January 2026 to March 2028.

Think of the boiler upgrade scheme as your financial springboard. It lowers the entry cost barrier, so that installing a heat pump doesn’t break the bank.

Key Benefits

• Instant contribution to upfront costs.
• Works alongside local authority grants.
• Supports both new builds and retrofits.
• Targets carbon reduction and fuel bill savings.

Comparing UK and Quebec Grants

“But what about Quebec?” I hear you ask. In Canada, Confort Expert runs programs like Chauffez Vert and LogisVert. They help residents switch from oil to heat pumps with grants up to $10,000 CAD. Nice, right? But those schemes are tailor-made for Quebec’s climate, grid and regulations.

Here’s how the UK’s boiler upgrade scheme stacks up:

• Regional focus: Designed for UK housing stock and energy prices.
• Grant levels: Generous but linked to UK market costs.
• Efficiency criteria: Aligned with UK Building Regulations.
• Installer network: Certified UK technicians like Megawave.

Quebec’s approach is a useful case study, yet it can’t help you in Manchester or Cardiff. That’s where The Heat Pumps UK steps in—local expertise, zero-carbon refrigerants, flexible finance and government-approved installs.

Top 2026 UK Heat Pump Grants

Beyond the boiler upgrade scheme, here are key funding streams to mix and match:

1. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

• Up to £7,500 grant for air source or ground source heat pumps.
• Open to owner-occupied homes and private landlords.
• Claim post-installation via an accredited installer.

2. Local Authority Delivery (LAD) Programmes

• Varies by council; some offer £2,000–£5,000.
• Often bundled with insulation measures.
• Check your local authority’s website for specific schemes.

3. Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)

• Targets low-income and vulnerable households.
• Grants for heating and insulation upgrades.
• Can be stacked with the boiler upgrade scheme.

4. Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)

• Aimed at low EPC ratings (D and below).
• Covers heat pumps, insulation, solar PV.
• Often requires an EPC assessment first.

Each grant has its own quirks. The trick? Combine them. Use the boiler upgrade scheme for your heat pump and LAD/ECO4 for loft insulation. Layering grants means bigger savings and faster payback.

How The Heat Pumps UK Helps

You could navigate these schemes solo. Or you could tap into:

• Expert installation services: Certified technicians ready to fit your air source heat pump flawlessly.
• Utilisation of zero-carbon refrigerants: We use R290 for minimal environmental impact.
• Tailored system designs: Every building is unique. We tailor the solution to your needs.
• Flexible finance options: Spread costs with zero-interest finance over 36 months.

In short, we handle the paperwork, the installs, the post-install testing. You just enjoy a warm home and lower bills.

Unlock Your Heat Pump Savings

Practical Steps to Secure Your Grant

Ready to apply? Follow these steps:

1. Audit your home
   Book an EPC or energy audit. You’ll need a score and baseline recommendations.

2. Get a quote
   Contact The Heat Pumps UK for a no-obligation estimate on heat pump cost, including the boiler upgrade scheme deduction.

3. Check eligibility
   Ensure you meet income or property criteria for each scheme. Our team can clarify.

4. Submit your application
   We guide or manage the paperwork for BUS, ECO4 or LAD.

5. Install your system
   Certified installers fit your heat pump. All work meets MCS standards.

6. Claim your grant
   After installation, we handle the submission to grant administrators.

We’ve refined this process from hundreds of installs. It’s straightforward. No surprises. Just green heat.

Real-World Impact

Imagine this: You pay £12,000 for an air source heat pump. The boiler upgrade scheme knocks off £7,500. ECO4 adds £2,000. Your out-of-pocket: £2,500. In return? 50% lower heating bills and 60% fewer emissions. Not bad.

Our customers across Leeds, Bristol and Edinburgh report:

• Payback in 5–7 years.
• Immediate improvement in home comfort.
• Peace of mind with a 5-year warranty.

They’re not waiting for “future tech.” They’re upgrading now. And you can too.

Beyond Grants: Additional Savings

Don’t stop at the boiler upgrade scheme. Think holistically:

• Insulate walls, floors, lofts.
• Install smart thermostats.
• Add solar PV for free daytime energy.
• Carry out regular maintenance to keep efficiency high.

These measures protect your heat pump investment and shelter you from future price hikes.

Conclusion

The boiler upgrade scheme is your gateway to affordable, eco-friendly heating. Mix it with local authority grants and ECO4 for maximum impact. Skip the jargon. Lean on specialists.

The Heat Pumps UK is here to:

• Demystify grant applications.
• Deliver zero-carbon solutions.
• Provide flexible finance.
• Guarantee a cosy, low-cost home.

Ready to transform your heating?

Get Your Eco-Friendly Heating Quote