Air Source Heat Pump Grant 2026: Your Complete Guide for London and Kent
In 2026, homeowners in England and Wales can access government grants through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) to help cover the cost of installing heat pumps. Standard grants are £7,500 for air-to-water heat pumps, with a temporary £9,000 uplift available until 31 March 2027 for eligible off-gas-grid properties currently using oil or LPG.
What heat pump grants can I get in 2026? In 2026, the primary support is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). You can receive £7,500 towards an air-to-water or ground source heat pump. For homes off the gas grid currently using oil or LPG, a temporary £9,000 grant is available until 31 March 2027. Additionally, £2,500 is available for air-to-air heat pump installations. ## How does the Boiler Upgrade Scheme work for London and Kent homeowners? The Boiler Upgrade Scheme is designed to simplify the transition to low-carbon heating. Unlike older schemes that required complex paperwork, the BUS is streamlined. You do not apply for the money yourself; your chosen MCS-certified installer handles the entire application process on your behalf. Once your eligibility is confirmed, the grant amount is deducted directly from the quote provided by your installer. This means you only pay the remaining balance, making the upfront investment more manageable. Whether you are in a Victorian terrace in London or a detached property in rural Kent, the process remains the same: find a certified installer, receive a quote with the grant already applied, and proceed with the installation. ## Who is eligible for the 2026 heat pump grants? To qualify for the BUS, you must own your property in England or Wales. The scheme is intended to replace fossil fuel heating systems, such as gas boilers, oil boilers, or LPG systems. Since April 2026, the previous requirement for a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) has been removed, making it easier for more households to qualify. It is important to note that the grant is limited to one per property. If you are building your own home, you may still be eligible, though new-build properties generally do not qualify for the standard BUS funding. ## Why is there a £9,000 grant for some properties? From 21 July 2026 to 31 March 2027, the government introduced a temporary uplift for specific off-gas-grid properties. If your home relies on heating oil or LPG and you do not have a mains gas connection, you could be eligible for £9,000 towards an air source or ground source heat pump. This initiative aims to support rural households in Kent and other areas that face higher heating costs and carbon footprints due to their reliance on traditional fuels. ## What about air-to-air heat pumps? As of 28 April 2026, the BUS was expanded to include air-to-air heat pumps, offering a £2,500 grant. These systems are excellent for heating and cooling, though they do not provide domestic hot water. If you choose this route, you may need to consider an additional solution for your hot water needs, such as a heat battery or an electric immersion system. ## How do I start the process? The first step is to contact an MCS-certified installer. At Renewables For Us, we recommend starting with a professional heat loss survey to ensure your home is suitable for a heat pump. Because grant budgets are finite and demand is high, it is advisable to secure your quotes early. Always ensure your installer is MCS-certified, as this is a mandatory requirement for accessing the BUS funding. ## Key takeaways - The standard BUS grant for air-to-water heat pumps is £7,500. - A temporary £9,000 grant is available for off-gas-grid homes using oil or LPG until 31 March 2027. - Air-to-air heat pumps are now eligible for a £2,500 grant. - You do not apply for the grant yourself; your MCS-certified installer applies on your behalf and deducts the amount from your quote. - The EPC requirement for the grant was removed in April 2026, simplifying eligibility.