The government is reportedly planning to offer £7,000 grants to homeowners wishing to scrap their existing heating appliance.
According to widespread media reports, the grants could be introduced through next spring’s Clean Heat Grants and be used towards renewable technologies including heat pumps.
The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is yet to unveil its full plans for the grants.
Adrienne Minster, CEO of Rated People, said: “It’s great to hear that the government is looking to quadruple the budget for the Clean Heat Grant. The average cost of an air source heat pump is around £10,000 and price remains a big barrier for homeowners looking to lower their carbon footprint. This grant of up to £7,000 will go a long way to helping many move to a cleaner energy solution. It’s set to help 60,000 households, and while there are a lot more than 60,000 gas boilers to replace across the UK, it’s a good start to further tackling carbon emissions.
“Our research has shown that growing awareness about climate change has meant that homeowners are keen to go green where possible. For a number of years, solar panels and insulation have been the go-to options when making sustainable home renovations. However, the fuel we use to heat our homes can make a big difference to a property’s carbon footprint. This is where heat pumps can play a huge role.”