Applications to Boiler Upgrade scheme almost double

With the Boiler Upgrade Scheme making its second anniversary, applications increased 93 per cent in April, compared to the same month last year.

The increase is led by by offers from energy suppliers which can make some heat pump installations a similar price to fitting a gas boiler, along with the introduction of cheaper electricity tariffs.

Heat pumps work by capturing heat from the air, ground or water to provide provide heating and hot water without using fossil fuels and are three times more efficient than gas boilers.

Energy security secretary Claire Coutinho said: "The latest numbers from our Boiler Upgrade Scheme show that for more and more families, the switch to a heat pump is starting to make financial sense.

"Our plan is to give families a helping hand, rather than forcing them to make expensive changes before they are ready.  

"That’s why we increased the support available through the scheme to £7,500 – making it one of the most generous in Europe.

"Applications in April have doubled year-on-year, meaning more families are saving money."

Minister for energy efficiency and green finance Lord Callanan said: "A 93 per cent increase in applications year-on-year in April shows our decision to increase grants for heat pumps was the right one, making it easier for households to switch to cleaner heating.

"Heat pumps are three times more efficient than gas boilers and more and more people are enjoying the benefits, without large upfront costs."