Ofgem will continue to process any BUS applications which were made before April 28th in accordance with current eligibility requirements and installers should continue to use BUS guidance version 4.2 for all current or active applications.
Any BUS applications which are properly made on or after April 28th will be processed in accordance with the amended regulations. To help installers prepare for these changes and ensure a smooth transition, Ofgem has published a draft version of the updated BUS guidance (version 5) and can be viewed on its website.
Summary of key changes
Subject to Parliamentary approval, the following changes will come into force on April 28th.
Expanded technology eligibility
· Air-to-air heat pumps will become eligible for a £2,500 grant in domestic properties.
· Heat pumps may be installed alongside non-fossil fuel supplementary heating appliances as part of multi-technology installations.
Upfront grant deduction
· Installers must deduct the grant value as an upfront discount to the installation cost and provide the property owner with a quote showing the cost before and after the grant is applied.
· Installers must not request or accept payment of the deducted grant amount to remain compliant with BUS requirements.
Consumer protection and certification
· Updates to align with MCS redeveloped installer scheme
Updated EPC requirements
· Properties no longer need a valid EPC to apply for BUS.
· Installers must provide alternative evidence, such as a recent utility bill and photos of the existing heating system.
· Where a valid EPC exists, it must still be submitted.
The BUS Installer Forum takes place on Tuesday April 14th from 2pm – 3:30pm and via this link you can Register now . After registering, you receive a confirmation e-mail with the link to join the event. Should you have any questions you would like to submit in advance, you can use the space available on the e