The government has released the latest figures for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), which saw strong uptake in 2025, with 110,758 voucher applications submitted, 98% for air source heat pumps.
December applications dipped to 2,686, 50% lower than November, reflecting normal seasonal patterns, but the year overall has been strong.
A total of 95,639 vouchers were issued during 2025. In December, 2,864 vouchers were issued – 31% lower than November but 11% higher than December 2024 – while 2,931 redemptions were paid, bringing the total to 72,982. December redemption applications, at 2,733, were the fourth highest on record.
The South East led in redemptions with 14,587, followed by the South West with 13,227. The North East recorded the fewest at 2,166, and Wales accounted for 3,687. Of all installations, 55% replaced gas systems, 17% replaced oil, and 14% were in homes without prior heating.
Median costs for air source heat pumps in Q4 2025 were £13,431, down 6% in real terms from the first year of the scheme.
Gav Murray, home heating director at Hive, comments:
“Despite a slight dip in December’s data, 2025 has been a strong year for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, with more homeowners than ever switching to more sustainable heating. The government’s Warm Homes Plan is a clear signal of intent to support the widespread adoption of heat pumps and ensure all households have access to greener homes.”
Matt Isherwood, Aira UK managing director:
“The 2025 Boiler Upgrade Scheme application figures clearly demonstrate this momentum, with a 36% year-on-year increase. Households are increasingly choosing heat pumps as a reliable, affordable, and future-proof way to heat their homes, and it is encouraging to see the BUS extended with further investment under the recently published Warm Homes Plan.”
