Increased Government Support for Air Source Heat Pumps is Positive News for Rural Homes
At HEART, we welcome the latest increase in government support designed to help more households replace older oil and LPG boilers with modern air source heat pumps.
For many rural families facing continued pressure from rising fuel costs, this is a highly positive development that can make cleaner, more efficient heating far more accessible.
The Government has confirmed that, through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), grants for homes currently heated by oil or LPG will rise from £7,500 to £9,000. This additional funding creates a stronger incentive for homeowners and small businesses across England and Wales to invest in renewable heating technology while improving long-term control over their energy bills.
For homes in rural and off-grid locations, this support is particularly important. Many properties outside towns and cities still rely on heating oil or LPG, which can be expensive and heavily influenced by global market changes. Recent international events have shown how quickly fossil fuel prices can rise, leaving households exposed to sudden and unpredictable increases in heating costs.
At HEART, we believe the increased grant funding is a clear recognition of the unique challenges rural homeowners face. Air source heat pumps provide a practical long-term solution by reducing dependence on delivered fuels and replacing them with an efficient system that can deliver reliable heating with lower running costs.
Heat pumps also support wider national goals to improve home energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. This aligns closely with the Government’s Warm Homes Plan, which aims to help households live in warmer, healthier homes while lowering energy use and cutting bills. Expanding access to renewable heating is an important part of making that vision a reality for families across the UK.
While installation costs can vary depending on the size, age, and condition of a property, as well as whether upgrades such as insulation or radiator improvements are required, the higher level of available grant funding can significantly reduce the upfront cost for many households.
This latest announcement also highlights the importance of expert guidance and quality installation standards. Every property is different, and choosing the right heating system requires professional advice tailored to the home’s layout, insulation levels, and heating needs. With the right support, more households can benefit from improved comfort, reduced energy waste, and lower long-term heating costs.
At HEART, we strongly support any government initiative that helps homeowners access sustainable heating technology. Increasing support for rural and off-grid homes is a major step toward protecting families from future fuel price shocks while accelerating the transition to cleaner, smarter heating across the UK.
If you would like to explore whether your home could benefit from an air source heat pump and available government support, contact HEART today. We are here to help you understand your options and take the next step toward a warmer, more energy-efficient home.