Regulation and Compliance

Do you have access to accurate operational and financial data in order to determine the current performance of your heat network?

The ultimate purpose is to provide reliable heating and hot water to residents. Understanding and analysing data is key to optimising heat networks and delivering reliable and affordable heat to customers. 

The regulations will feature technical and performance measures, as detailed in the  Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS). The HNTAS is currently in consultation but will build upon the CIBSE CP1 guidance and require accurate reporting of performance from all networks. We can help you access the appropriate funding routes, to help achieve the improvements needed to meet these measures. 

The ultimate goal of Ofgem becoming the sector regulator is to ensure residents are protected, receive reliable heating and hot water, while paying fair prices. Our Lighthouse consumer brand provides dedicated consumer support, information and links to supporting organisations. 

If you appoint us as the Energy Services Company (ESCo) on your project, we will take responsibility for complying with all regulations. We will help you mitigate risk by managing fuel procurement, developing robust revenue streams, offsetting capital costs, providing metering and billing services, and ensuring the system performs optimally.

Consumer support begins.

The Energy Ombudsman, Citizen's Advice and Advice Direct Scotland will advocate for customers living on heat networks, providing free and impartial advice to resolve problems they face which cannot be resolved with their heat network operator. A customer can complain to the Energy Ombudsman if:

• A problem they have reported to their heat network operator is not fixed within eight weeks. 
• If they have reached a 'deadlock' with their heat network operator, where an issue cannot be resolved. 
• They are not satisfied with the response they get from their heat network operator. 

Ofgem regulations for heat networks come into effect. All heat networks operating before January 2027 will be automatically authorised, this is called 'deemed authorisation'. After this period, authorisation will be granted by an application to Ofgem. 

Formal heat network registration begins. Heat network operators with deemed authorisation must register with us using the digital service by the 26th January 2027. 

All heat networks must be fully registered with Ofgem to remain operational under the new regulations.