Energy Systems Catapult welcomes the opportunity to respond to this Department for Energy Security and Net Zero consultation on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certification requirements for clean heat schemes.

Key points:

• Broaden technology scope: Enable mixed and room‑specific heat‑pump systems (including air‑to‑air) alongside other electric heaters, with grant support tied to performance rather than product type.
• Ensure real savings: Require removal or displacement of high‑carbon heaters and update EPC modelling to reflect true efficiency.
• Flexible funding: Back hire‑purchase and “heat as a service” models with clear consumer protections, avoiding perverse volumetric incentives.
• Streamlined regulation: Align BUS eligibility with existing MCS, FCA and Ofgem frameworks (using ARs, not full FCA authorisation), and apply proportionate, principles‑based safeguards.