Installing an air source heat pump can be a significant investment for homeowners. However, government funding may help reduce the upfront cost and make switching to low-carbon heating more accessible.
If you live in Cornwall or Devon and are considering replacing your existing heating system, understanding the grants available is an important first step.
The UK’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides financial support for eligible heat pump installations in England and Wales. The amount available depends on the technology installed and, in some cases, the type of heating system being replaced.
In this guide, we explain how the scheme works, who may qualify, how to apply and what to consider before arranging a heat pump installation.
Important: Grant amounts and eligibility rules can change. The information below reflects published government guidance available in October 2026. Always check the official scheme requirements before committing to an installation.
What Is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a UK government initiative that helps property owners in England and Wales replace eligible existing heating systems with low-carbon alternatives.
Rather than providing a general cash payment for home improvements, the scheme supports the upfront cost of eligible heating installations.
According to the official Boiler Upgrade Scheme guidance on GOV.UK, the scheme supports qualifying heat pumps and certain biomass boiler installations.
For homeowners, this can reduce the amount payable towards an eligible installation.
The scheme is particularly relevant if you are considering an air source heat pump and want to understand what government support may be available before requesting a quotation.
How Much Is the Heat Pump Grant in 2026?
The grant amount depends on the type of system and whether your property qualifies for additional support.
Under the published scheme rules, the main grant amounts are:
- £7,500 towards an eligible air-to-water heat pump.
- £7,500 towards an eligible ground source heat pump.
- £2,500 towards an eligible air-to-air heat pump in a residential property.
There is also an enhanced grant of £9,000 for qualifying air-to-water or ground source heat pump installations at eligible off-gas-grid properties replacing oil or LPG heating, under the arrangements available from 21 July 2026 until 31 March 2027.
These amounts are subject to the scheme’s detailed conditions. The enhanced grant is not automatically available to every rural property or every homeowner using an alternative fuel.
For the current grant values and conditions, consult the government’s official Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant information.
Who Is Eligible for a Heat Pump Grant?
Eligibility depends on the property, the existing heating system and the proposed installation.
1. You Must Own the Property
The scheme is available to eligible property owners. This can include homeowners, landlords and owners of certain business properties, subject to the applicable rules.
If you rent your home rather than own it, you would normally need to discuss the proposed installation with your landlord.
2. You Must Be Replacing an Eligible Heating System
The scheme is designed to support the transition from eligible existing heating systems to qualifying low-carbon heating technologies.
Depending on the installation category, the existing system may include gas, oil, LPG or certain electric heating arrangements.
The detailed requirements vary by technology and grant category. You should therefore confirm that your existing heating system qualifies before making plans.
3. The New Heat Pump Must Meet Scheme Requirements
The proposed installation must comply with the applicable technical and eligibility standards.
Your installer can help determine whether the proposed equipment, system design and installation meet the scheme’s requirements.
An air-to-water heat pump must also be suitable for providing the property’s required space heating and hot water under the applicable rules.
4. You Must Use an Eligible Installer
For the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, the installer must meet the scheme’s certification requirements.
The installer handles the grant application process on your behalf, including submitting the required information and obtaining the relevant approvals.
Before agreeing to an installation, ask the installer to confirm their eligibility to participate in the scheme and explain how the grant will be applied to your quotation.
You can find further details in Ofgem’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme guidance for property owners.
How to Apply for a Heat Pump Grant
The process is designed to be handled with an eligible installer rather than requiring you to arrange the grant independently.
Step 1: Check Whether Your Property Is Suitable
Start by considering your current heating system, the layout of your property and your heating requirements.
A professional assessment can help establish whether a heat pump is appropriate and what changes, if any, may be needed to your existing heating system.
Step 2: Find an Eligible Installer
Choose an installer who meets the scheme’s requirements and can explain the proposed system, installation costs and grant process.
Ask for a clear breakdown showing the total installation price, the applicable grant and the remaining amount you would need to pay.
Step 3: Confirm Your Eligibility
Your installer should explain which grant category may apply to your property and what information is required.
Do not assume that you qualify for the enhanced £9,000 grant simply because you live in a rural area. The applicable conditions must be satisfied.
Step 4: Let the Installer Submit the Application
The installer applies for the grant through the scheme’s process on your behalf.
The application must meet the relevant requirements and receive the necessary approvals. Confirm the process and timing with your installer before committing to work.
Step 5: Review the Final Quotation
Once the grant arrangements are clear, review the final quotation carefully.
Check the equipment specification, installation work, any additional improvements, the grant deduction and the balance payable by you.
For the official application process, visit the GOV.UK Boiler Upgrade Scheme application guide.
Can Homeowners in Cornwall and Devon Apply?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme applies to eligible properties in England and Wales, so homeowners in Cornwall and Devon can potentially qualify.
However, living in either county does not automatically make a property eligible.
Your eligibility will depend on the property, existing heating system, proposed heat pump and the scheme’s applicable conditions.
Some rural properties in the region may use heating oil or LPG rather than mains gas. If your property falls into this category, it is worth checking whether the enhanced grant conditions apply to your proposed installation.
For properties using oil or LPG, the higher grant is subject to specific requirements, including the property’s lack of a mains gas connection and the qualifying heating system being replaced.
If you are unsure which category applies, consult the official guidance or speak to an installer familiar with the scheme.
You can also explore Regan Air’s heat pump services to learn more about the available options.
Does the Grant Cover the Entire Installation Cost?
Not necessarily.
The grant contributes towards the cost of an eligible installation, but it does not guarantee that the entire project will be covered.
Your final cost depends on the system selected, the requirements of your property and any additional work needed.
For example, the installation may involve changes to radiators, pipework, electrical arrangements or other parts of the heating system. Whether these are required depends on the property and proposed design.
Before proceeding, ask for a quotation that clearly identifies:
- The total installation cost.
- The grant amount being claimed.
- Any additional work or equipment.
- The final amount payable by you.
- Any work excluded from the quotation.
This will help you understand the actual financial commitment rather than relying on the grant amount alone.
Are There Other Forms of Heat Pump Funding?
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is an important source of support, but other energy-efficiency programmes may be available to certain households or properties.
Eligibility, funding levels and application routes can vary. Some programmes are aimed at households meeting specific income or property requirements, while others may be delivered through local authorities or energy suppliers.
Do not assume that different schemes can automatically be combined. Check the rules of each programme and whether it can be used alongside the funding you are considering.
For the most reliable information, start with official government guidance and check whether any relevant local or household-specific programmes are currently open.
What Should You Consider Before Applying?
A grant can make a heat pump more affordable, but the financial support should not be the only factor in your decision.
Before proceeding, consider the following.
The Suitability of Your Home
Your property’s heat loss, insulation, existing radiators and heating demand can influence the system design.
An assessment helps determine the work required and whether the proposed equipment is suitable.
Expected Running Costs
The amount you spend on electricity will depend on your home’s heating demand, the system’s efficiency and your electricity tariff.
A grant reduces the upfront cost; it does not determine how much the system will cost to operate.
The Complete Installation Price
Compare the full quotation and understand what is included. A lower headline price may not cover the same work or equipment as another proposal.
The Installer’s Experience and Credentials
Ask about relevant certification, installation standards, warranties and aftercare. Confirm that the installer can participate in the grant scheme if you intend to apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the UK heat pump grant in 2026?
The main Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant is £7,500 for eligible air-to-water and ground source heat pumps. Eligible residential air-to-air heat pump installations can receive £2,500. Certain qualifying off-gas-grid properties replacing oil or LPG heating may qualify for £9,000 towards an eligible air-to-water or ground source heat pump under the enhanced grant arrangements.
Can I get a heat pump grant if I live in Cornwall?
Potentially, yes. Cornwall is in England, where the Boiler Upgrade Scheme operates. You must still meet the property’s, existing heating system’s and proposed installation’s eligibility requirements.
Can I get a heat pump grant if I live in Devon?
Potentially, yes. Homeowners and other eligible property owners in Devon can check their eligibility under the scheme. Your location alone does not guarantee approval.
Can I apply for the grant myself?
The installer applies for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant on your behalf. You should confirm eligibility and the proposed application process with an installer who meets the scheme’s requirements.
Is the £9,000 grant available to everyone?
No. The enhanced grant applies to qualifying off-gas-grid properties replacing eligible oil or LPG heating systems, subject to the applicable scheme conditions and time limits.
Does a heat pump grant cover all installation costs?
No. The grant contributes towards the cost of an eligible installation. You may still need to pay the remaining balance and any additional costs not covered by the grant.
Where can I check the latest grant rules?
Use the official GOV.UK Boiler Upgrade Scheme guidance and Ofgem’s property owner guidance.
Explore Heat Pump Options With Regan Air
If you’re considering replacing your existing heating system, understanding the available grant support is a useful first step.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme may reduce the upfront cost of an eligible installation, but the right decision also depends on your property, heating requirements and the complete installation quotation.
Regan Air provides heat pump services for homeowners in Cornwall and Devon.
Visit our heat pumps service page to explore your options, or contact Regan Air to discuss your property and installation requirements.