Record Heat Pump applications signal a growing shift away from Oil Heating

Record demand for heat pumps

Figures published by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero show that 8,150 Boiler Upgrade Scheme applications were made in July 2026, an 81% increase on the previous month and more than double the number recorded in the same month last year.

The figures come as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant available to eligible heating oil and LPG households has increased from £7,500 to £9,000, with the additional funding available until March 2027.

For rural and off-grid households in particular, the change is significant. Since the scheme launched, 49% of BUS grants have gone to rural properties, while 38% have gone to homes that are off the gas grid.

Supporting the transition

VN Solutions, which brings together heat pump distribution, underfloor heating and bespoke commercial heat emitter specialists within Purmo Group, welcomes the latest figures as a positive sign for the continued adoption of heat pump technology.

The increased demand highlights the importance of working with experienced partners that can support the design, specification and delivery of low-carbon heating systems at scale.

Chris Higgs, Commercial Director at VN Solutions, said: “These figures are an encouraging sign that more households are considering heat pumps as a practical alternative to fossil fuel heating.

“The increased grant for heating oil and LPG households is particularly welcome, helping to make the transition more accessible for properties that have historically had fewer options for moving away from fossil fuels.

“As demand grows, trusted partners are needed that can provide the right products, technical expertise and practical support to ensure heat pump projects deliver the performance and efficiency homeowners expect.

“We are pleased to support customers through this changing market, helping them respond to additional demand and deliver effective, lower-carbon heating solutions across a range of developments.”

As demand grows for low carbon heating solutions, VN Solutions brings together the specialist expertise needed to support HVAC professionals, housebuilders and regional developers delivering heating projects at scale. This includes Unitherm UK’s specialist heat pump distribution and technical support, alongside expertise in underfloor heating and bespoke commercial heat emitters across the wider VN Solutions group.

For more information, or to seek advice for a project you are working on, contact us.