How can I get a grant for a new pellet stove?

The fight against smog and air pollution caused by coal combustion has prompted the government to take steps aimed at the widespread replacement of old stoves with new, more efficient and environmentally friendly models. To encourage owners of old appliances to replace them, a scheme has been introduced offering financial assistance towards the purchase of a new stove. How can you apply for this assistance?

The purpose of funding the replacement of boilers

Civilisational changes linked to population density and urbanisation have caused massive levels of air pollution, particularly in autumn and winter, when old-style boilers fuelled by coal and wood are in operation. The reduction in air corridors in large cities means that smog hangs in the air for weeks on end. Meanwhile, scientists have long warned that the health costs borne by each of us as a result of breathing polluted air are difficult to estimate, both in terms of health loss and the cost of treating it. For this reason, it has been decided to tackle the root cause of rising air pollution by encouraging people to replace their old stoves with new, eco-friendly ones. Pellet stoves are considered eco-friendly provided they meet the requirements of Class 5, in accordance with standard EN 303-5:2012.

Who is eligible to apply for funding?

The beneficiaries of the “Clean Air” programme are individuals who are owners or co-owners of detached houses or flats within detached houses. An essential condition is the possession of a separate land and mortgage register. Funding may be applied for by persons whose income per family member does not exceed PLN 1,400 or PLN 1,960, if it is a single-person household. In the case of running a business, annual income must not exceed thirty times the minimum wage set for the previous year.

Amount and form of funding

The funding may take the form of a direct grant or cover part of the repayment of a bank loan taken out to purchase a new boiler. Depending on the scope of the dismantling work and the work involved in installing and purchasing the new boiler, the amount of funding can reach several tens of thousands of zlotys.

How to apply for funding to replace a furnace?

Applications for funding are submitted electronically via the websites of the Provincial Funds for Environmental Protection and Water Management, under the ‘Beneficiary Portal’ tab, where you must register. An application is then generated, which must be sent electronically and also printed out and delivered in paper form, together with a signature, to the WFOŚiGW responsible for your place of residence. Of course, the application can also be sent by post.

It is worth noting that many local authorities have their own schemes for replacing boilers with eco-friendly models, so it is worth finding out whether such schemes exist in the local authority where you live. These may be more comprehensive, involving other entities in the funding, or offering higher levels of financial support. To obtain information on this matter, please contact the local authority responsible for your place of residence.