Gav Murray, Hive heating director at Centrica New Business Net Zero, has commented on the latest Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) figures.
April’s BUS data showed a 9% drop in applications on the previous month. However, last month’s figures hit an all-time record. A statement said that while April shows a dip, the numbers remain strong and have returned to more anticipated levels.
Hive reported an 87% uplift in people registering their interest in a heat pump so far this year, compared with the same period in 2024.
It also reported that double the number of heat pump customers are now using BUS in 2025 compared to 2024.
Gav Murray said: “The Boiler Upgrade Scheme remains a crucial tool for people looking to transition to more affordable, sustainable heating.
“The government’s new planning rules for England, which come into effect today, are excellent news for homeowners looking to embrace cleaner heating technology. By removing the restrictive one-metre boundary rule and allowing larger heat pump units, these changes will unlock heat pump installations for thousands of properties that were previously blocked by planning constraints.
“Combined with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grants, homeowners now have both the financial support and planning flexibility to make the switch to more affordable, low-carbon heating. To truly accelerate adoption and meet the government’s ambitious targets, we still need to see the scheme expanded to include a variety of low-carbon heating technologies, ensuring every UK property has a viable pathway to the future of home heating.”