The Gas Boiler Ban 2035: What You Need to Know

The government has made a controversial decision to postpone the gas boiler ban in new builds from 2025 to 2035, aiming to completely phase out gas boiler installations by the latter date.

This shift raises the question: what will replace gas boilers?

Are you wondering how you’ll heat your home without a gas boiler? The delay in the gas boiler ban may seem daunting, but understanding the reasons behind this decision and exploring available alternatives can ease your concerns.

What is the Gas Boiler Ban and Why Is It Happening?

In 2021, a report by the National Housing Federation highlighted that English homes contribute more to carbon emissions than cars, with 25 million homes producing 58.5 million tonnes of CO₂ annually—equivalent to the emissions from 28 million vehicles. This spurred the government to take action, initially setting a 2025 deadline for banning gas boilers in new builds.

The gas boiler ban is part of the government's strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. The Net Zero Strategy requires a 45% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, aiming for zero by 2050. This involves cutting emissions from fossil fuels used in heating homes and driving cars. However, with the adjustments to environmental targets by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, the 2035 deadline for phasing out gas boilers may impact the overall reduction goals.

The current global gas shortage has led to skyrocketing prices and energy companies going bust, prompting climate experts to argue for an accelerated gas boiler ban. Despite concerns about heating homes without gas boilers, there are viable alternatives, including energy-efficient boilers that do not rely on gas.

When Does the Gas Boiler Ban Come into Effect?

The government introduced the gas boiler ban as part of the Heat and Buildings Strategy in 2021, outlining changes to be implemented in two stages: 2025 and 2035. This staged approach caused confusion about the actual implementation dates.

Stage 1: 2025

Initially, the ban was set to begin in 2025, prohibiting gas boilers in new builds. The government planned to continue consulting on ending new gas grid connections, and builders and heating providers were preparing for this date.

Stage 2: 2035

The second stage aimed to phase out natural gas boilers entirely by 2035 for all properties. After this date, when a gas boiler needs replacement, homeowners would need to install low-carbon alternatives.

Government's Announcement on the Gas Boiler Ban

In September 2023, the Prime Minister announced a delay in the gas boiler ban, extending deadlines for both off-grid properties (previously set for 2026) and new builds to 2035. The decision was justified by the argument that such changes were becoming increasingly unaffordable.

Critics pointed out that homeowners weren't being forced to make immediate changes, as new gas boilers would be phased out gradually. Additionally, the government offers grants under the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, historically providing between £5,000 and £6,000 for low-carbon heating alternatives. The recent announcement increased this amount to £7,500 without additional funding, limiting the number of beneficiaries.

After 2035

Post-2035, it's still unclear if gas boilers will be completely phased out. According to the government, homeowners will not be forced to replace a functioning gas boiler even after 2035. The gas boiler ban is designed to require a switch to alternatives only when a gas boiler reaches the end of its lifespan.

Grants for Heat Pumps: The Boiler Upgrade Scheme

To facilitate the transition, the government offers grants through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, providing up to £7,500 for low-carbon heating systems. This scheme, running since April 2022 and available until 2028 and has a funding pot of £450 million.

How Will the Gas Boiler Ban Affect Average People?

The gas boiler ban hasn’t yet taken effect, giving homeowners time to prepare. If you plan to move into a new build after 2035, it will likely have low-carbon heating methods installed. If building a new home, you’ll need to incorporate low-carbon heating options. Check the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for potential savings.

Gas Boiler Alternatives

Given that 14% of UK emissions come from home energy use, alternative heating systems are essential. Here are some common alternatives:

Heat Pumps -

Heat pumps are energy-efficient, renewable heat sources that can save money over time. They come in two main types: air source and ground source. Despite high installation costs, government grants can help. Heat pumps can save nearly £3,000 over their lifespan and prevent 20 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

Infrared Panels -

Infrared heating panels use radiant heat to warm specific areas, making them ideal for hard-to-heat spaces. While they require one panel per room, they can reduce heating costs by 30-50%, depending on insulation levels.

Hydrogen Boilers -

Hydrogen boilers, which use hydrogen as a cleaner fuel, are in development and may cost similarly to gas boilers, offering a familiar heating solution without fossil fuels.

District Heat Networks

These networks deliver heat through insulated pipes from one source to multiple buildings, though currently rare, they may become more common post-ban.

Will the Gas Boiler Ban Help the UK?

Phasing out gas boilers will contribute to environmental protection, supporting the government's net-zero 2050 target. This transition promises cleaner air, water, and a healthier country.