The boiler upgrade scheme is being brought in as a replacement for the Renewable Heating Incentive.
The Renewable Heating Incentive was a scheme brought to the UK in 2015 which was then extended by 2 years in 2020. The renewable heating system installed and the size of your home equalled the amount of money you’d receive back over the 7 years.
This tariff like structure of the RHI was created to make people see renewable heating as an attractive option for upgrading their homes. However, many households raised concerns over the initial cost.
Depending on the renewable heating source, initial costs can start anywhere from £4,000 to £20,0000. Making it difficult for those who don’t have the initial savings to enter the scheme.
This is why the Government have now set up the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
The Clean Heat Grant
This scheme has the same aim as the RHI, to reduce carbon emissions released by household heating systems. The big difference with the Clean Heat Grant is that people will be more supported with the upfront cost - creating a simpler procedure.
Anyone accepted for the Clean Heat Grant will be given vouchers up to £5000, which will be put towards the initial cost of the renewable energy system.
This new and improved grant will be brought in at the beginning of April 2022, not long after the RHI is set to end in March, and will currently run for 3 years.
Eligibility for the Scheme
Unfortunately, not everyone will be eligible for the scheme right away. Before jumping in to apply, it's essential to check you tick all the boxes.
The criteria are as follows:
Existing Build or Custom Made Home
Similar to the domestic RHI scheme, your home must be pre-existing or custom-built. If you have a new build home (a property that’s been newly built or substantially renovated within the past two years), you won’t be eligible for the scheme.
To change to a low carbon heating option in a new build is much cheaper than in an old home. Therefore, the focus of the scheme is to reduce the cost for those in older homes.
Valid EPC Certificate
An Energy Performance Certificate shows how energy efficient your property is. You’ll be given an efficiency grade rating from A (very efficient) to G (not efficient), this indicates how costly it will be to heat your home.
To be eligible for the scheme you’ll need an EPC that was issued in the last 10 years. Check out more information on how to get a new energy certificate here.
Needs Assessed and Quote from Certified Installer
You must get an MCS certified heating installer to assess whether your home is eligible for renewable heating, and get a quote. The quote will then be used to determine part of the voucher.
It is the installer's responsibility to cash in the voucher once you've been successful, doing this ensures the scheme is being used for the right properties in the right way.
For an assessment and quote contact the Green Energy 4 All team today.
No Recommendations for Loft and Cavity Wall Insulation
When you receive your EPC, to be eligible for the scheme it must have no recommendations for loft and cavity wall insulations. Listed buildings, conservation areas and other factors can be exempt from this requirement.
Which Heating Systems Included in The Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Renewable heating systems that are included are:
Water source heat pumps
Biomass boilers (only if heat pumps aren’t suitable for your property)
The Committee of Climate Change has stated that heat pumps are one of the most efficient ways to produce heat and limit carbon emissions.