Scottish Boiler Scrappage Scheme Set to Launch on 24th May

Following the relative success of the UK Government’s Boiler Scrappage Scheme, which benefited homes throughout England , the Scottish Government has announced plans of its own scheme to replace old, energy inefficient boilers with more environmentally friendly condensing boilers.

Up to 5,000 eligible households in Scotland will be able to receive £400 towards the cost of upgrading their existing boilers. The Scottish Boiler Scrappage Scheme is to be managed through Energy Saving Scotland and vouchers will be made available as of May 24th 2010, which gives just enough time for households to register their interest.

The environmental benefits of upgrading inefficient boilers have been widely publicised in England, where the UK Government’s scheme recently came to an end. Energy Saving Scotland, which is an agency of the Scottish Government, believes that up to 5,000 tonnes of carbon emissions can be prevented each year through the boiler scrappage scheme, for which households can apply online or over the phone.

In order to put these savings in perspective, 5,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide is the approximate equivalent of heating 7,000,000 baths or removing 1,700 cars from Scottish roads. In short, the Scottish Government’s Boiler Scrappage Scheme could have a relatively small but nonetheless significant impact on carbon emissions in the country.

Furthermore, reducing carbon emissions is not the only benefit of replacing old boilers for more energy efficient alternatives; according to various sources, an environmentally friendly boiler can result in annual bill savings of almost £200, which is hardly insignificant in the current economic climate.

Scotland’s Housing and Communities Minister, Alex Neil, said: “Scotland is seen around the world as a champion for low-carbon living. A vital part of this is helping people to live in greener homes”. Mr Neil added that greener homes are also cheaper to run, before concluding: “Through the boiler scrappage scheme we will help people replace rickety old boilers for new energy saving models and importantly, put money back in the pockets of householders. At the same time we are providing an economic stimulus for the heating industry, supporting jobs and helping it get through this financially difficult time”.