Households across rural Devon could benefit from increased government support for switching from fossil fuel heating to cleaner, more efficient alternatives.

From 21 July 2026, the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme will offer grants of up to £9,000 for eligible off-gas-grid homes replacing oil or LPG heating systems with air source or ground source heat pumps. The scheme is designed to help homeowners and businesses move away from fossil fuel heating while reducing carbon emissions and improving energy efficiency.

The change could be particularly significant for Devon, where many rural homes are not connected to the mains gas network and instead rely on heating oil. These households often face higher and more volatile fuel costs, making the transition to low-carbon heating an attractive option.

Heat pumps work by extracting heat from the air or ground and can provide a low-carbon alternative to traditional oil, LPG and gas boilers. Through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, eligible property owners in England and Wales can apply for funding to help cover the upfront installation costs.

Increasing the grant available to off-gas-grid properties recognises the important role these homes can play in the UK’s transition to net zero. For many Devon residents, the additional support may make switching to a heat pump more affordable than ever before.

The development aligns closely with the ambitions of the Devon Carbon Plan, which identifies the decarbonisation of heating as a key part of reducing emissions across the county.

Residents interested in finding out more can check their eligibility and learn how to apply through the Government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme website.