May 20 2024

Government Grants Available for Air Source Heat Pumps in Cornwall: Is Your Home Eligible?

Are you dreaming of a warmer home with lower energy bills, but the upfront cost of installing an air source heat pump seems daunting? You’re not alone. Many Cornwall homeowners are eager to embrace greener heating solutions but are hesitant due to the initial investment required.

The good news is that the UK government and local organisations offer a range of grants and incentives to help make air source heat pumps more affordable. These financial support schemes can significantly offset the installation cost, making this energy-efficient technology accessible to a wider range of households.

In this article, we’ll break down the different government grants available for air source heat pumps in Cornwall.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply want to save on your energy bills, understanding these grants could be the key to making your dream of a greener home a reality.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a government initiative encouraging homeowners in England and Wales to replace their old fossil fuel boilers with low-carbon heating systems like air source heat pumps. The scheme aims to reduce the UK’s carbon emissions and help households transition to more sustainable energy sources.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the BUS grant, your property must meet certain criteria:

Property Type: The property must be a domestic building in England or Wales.
Heating System: You must replace an existing fossil fuel heating system (e.g., gas, oil, or electric storage heaters).
Energy Performance Certificate: Your property must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) of less than ten years.
Installer: An MCS-certified installer must carry out the installation (Microgeneration Certification Scheme).

Grant Funding

The BUS offers generous grant funding to help cover the cost of installing an air source heat pump:

£5,000: For air source heat pumps.

Application Process

The application process for the BUS grant is relatively straightforward:

Find an MCS-certified installer: Heat Pump Pro is an MCS-certified installer and can guide you through the process.
Get a quote and apply for the grant: Your installer will provide a quote and apply for the grant on your behalf.
Voucher issuance: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a voucher for the grant amount.
Installation and redemption: Once the installation is complete, your installer will redeem the voucher, and the grant amount will be deducted from your final bill.

The BUS is a fantastic opportunity for Cornwall homeowners to upgrade their heating systems, reduce their carbon footprint, and save money on energy bills. With substantial grant funding available, it’s never been a better time to switch to an air source heat pump.

Additional Funding Options: Exploring Further Support

While the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers substantial support, other financial assistance is available for Cornwall homeowners looking to install air source heat pumps. Several other options may be available to you:

Local Council Grants or Schemes

Some local councils in Cornwall offer additional grants or schemes to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption. These programs may vary from council to council, so it’s worth checking with your local authority to see if you qualify for additional funding.

Energy Company Incentives

Certain energy companies may offer incentives or discounts for customers who install energy-efficient heating systems like air source heat pumps. This could include rebates, lower tariffs, or other financial benefits. Check with your energy supplier to see what options they offer.

Community Energy Initiatives

Cornwall has a vibrant community energy sector with various initiatives supporting renewable energy projects. Some community energy groups may offer grants, loans, or other financial assistance to help homeowners install air source heat pumps.

By exploring these additional funding options, you can stack your savings and significantly reduce the upfront cost of your heat pump installation. It’s worth researching and contacting relevant organisations to see what support is available in your area.

Remember, the landscape of grants and incentives is constantly evolving. Keep an eye on updates from the government, local councils, and energy companies to stay informed about the latest opportunities for financial support.

Eligibility Requirements

While government grants can significantly reduce the cost of installing an air source heat pump, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements to determine if you qualify.

Here are the key factors that will be considered:

Property Type and Ownership

The BUS is available to homeowners (including landlords) in England and Wales. It applies to domestic properties, including houses, flats, and bungalows.

Energy Performance Certificate

Your property must have a valid EPC under ten years old. For applications made before May 8, 2024, there are no recommendations for loft or cavity wall insulation on the EPC. However, for applications made after this date, the EPC should only have outstanding loft or cavity wall insulation recommendations if you have an insulation exemption. This is because well-insulated homes are more efficient and benefit most from heat pumps.

Removal of Fossil Fuel Heating Systems

To be eligible for the grant, you must replace an existing fossil fuel heating system, such as an oil, gas, or electric storage boiler. You cannot claim the grant if you replace a low-carbon heating system.

Common Questions and Concerns

Can I get a grant if I live in a listed building or conservation area?

Yes, you may still be eligible. However, you may need to obtain additional permissions or meet specific requirements for installing the heat pump.

What if my property isn’t connected to the gas grid?

This is no barrier to eligibility. Properties off the gas grid may be particularly suitable for air source heat pumps.

Do I need to have some level of insulation to qualify?

As mentioned earlier, the EPC insulation requirements vary depending on the date of your application. Check the latest government guidelines for specifics.

It’s always recommended to contact the relevant authorities or a qualified installer like Heat Pump Pro to get a definitive answer on your eligibility based on your specific circumstances.

How Heat Pump Pro Can Help

Navigating the world of government grants can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Heat Pump Pro guides you through the entire process, making it as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Our experienced team profoundly understands the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and other funding options available in Cornwall. We’ll assess your property’s eligibility, answer any questions you may have, and help you gather all the necessary documents for your application. We’ll even apply on your behalf, saving you time and ensuring everything is done correctly.

But our support does not end. We offer a comprehensive range of services to make your transition to an air source heat pump as seamless as possible. Our services include:

Free consultation and assessment: We’ll visit your property to assess its suitability for a heat pump and discuss your specific needs and preferences.
Customised design and installation: We’ll design a bespoke heat pump system tailored to your home and budget.
Professional installation by certified engineers: Our team of qualified engineers will install your heat pump to the highest standards, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Ongoing maintenance and support: We offer maintenance contracts to keep your heat pump running smoothly for years.

With Heat Pump Pro by your side, you can confidently embrace the benefits of an air source heat pump without worrying about the complexities of grant applications or installation. We’re committed to making renewable energy accessible to all Cornwall homeowners.