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What help is available to replace gas central heating?

Replacing a gas central heating system with a more energy-efficient alternative can be a significant investment, but there are several government schemes and financial incentives available to help homeowners cover the costs. Here are some of the main options:

1. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS):

- The BUS is a government-backed initiative that provides financial support for homeowners in England and Wales who want to replace an old, inefficient gas boiler with a more energy-efficient heating system, such as a heat pump.

- Under the BUS, homeowners can receive a grant of up to £6,000 towards the upfront costs of installing certain energy-efficient heating systems.

2. Home Energy Scotland Loan:

- In Scotland, the Home Energy Scotland Loan offers interest-free loans of up to £25,000 to homeowners for energy-saving improvements, including replacing a gas boiler with a more efficient alternative.

- Repayments for this loan are spread over a period of up to 10 years.

3. Energy Company Obligation (ECO):

- The ECO is a government-mandated scheme that requires energy companies to support energy efficiency measures in households, including replacing inefficient boilers.

- Under ECO, some homeowners may be eligible for free boiler replacements or financial incentives towards the installation of energy-efficient heating systems.

4. Local Authority Grants and Programs:

- Some local authorities in the UK offer their own grants or programs to support energy-efficient home improvements, including replacing gas boilers. Homeowners can check with their local authority to find out if such assistance is available in their area.

5. Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI):

- The RHI is a government-funded incentive scheme that provides ongoing payments to homeowners who install renewable heating systems, such as biomass boilers or heat pumps.

- The amount of incentive paid depends on the type of renewable energy technology used and the amount of heat generated by the system.

6. Green Deal Finance:

- The Green Deal Finance scheme helps homeowners pay for energy-saving improvements, including replacing a gas boiler, over a period of time through a pay-as-you-save approach.

- Repayments for Green Deal Finance are added to the homeowner's energy bill and can be spread over a period of up to 10 years.

It is important to note that the availability and specific details of these schemes may change, so it is recommended to stay updated on the latest information and criteria to determine which options may best suit individual circumstances. Additionally, it is always advisable to obtain multiple quotes from reputable heating contractors to compare costs and options before making a decision.