Heat network regulation in the UK is changing – could your organisation be affected?
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From January 2026, heat networks in Great Britain have been subject to a new regulatory framework, with Ofgem taking over responsibility for regulation. The new requirements introduce greater oversight of heat network operators and suppliers, with a stronger focus on consumer protection, governance and ongoing compliance.
Could your organisation be in scope?
The definition of a heat network is broader than many organisations may realise. The regulations can apply to district and communal heat networks, as well as certain self-supply and industrial networks. This means organisations operating their own heat network across multiple buildings could potentially be affected – including hospitals, universities, education campuses and industrial sites.
If your organisation owns or operates an energy centre, heat network pipework, substations or associated infrastructure serving multiple properties or buildings, it is worth establishing whether you have regulatory responsibilities.
Are you affected by the new Heat Network Regulations?
Answer these quick questions to see whether your organisation could fall within the new regulatory framework and what you may need to consider next.
What has changed?
The new Heat Network (Market Framework) (Great Britain) Regulations 2025 are replacing the previous, more limited regulatory approach under the Heat Network (Metering & Billing) Regulations 2014. Existing operators and suppliers of relevant heat networks must register with Ofgem and provide information about their organisation, network, ownership, financial resilience and consumer protection arrangements. Existing heat networks must be registered by 26 January 2027.
Registration is only part of the picture. Organisations will also need to understand the authorisation conditions that apply to them and maintain appropriate processes to demonstrate ongoing compliance.
And there is more to come
Further technical requirements are also being developed through the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS), expected from 2027. This will increase the focus on the technical performance, monitoring and assurance of heat networks.
For organisations operating existing networks, this makes it important to look beyond registration and consider whether current systems, data, metering, processes and governance will be able to support the requirements ahead.
What should you do now?
The first step is to establish whether your organisation and heat network are in scope and understand which regulatory responsibilities apply. Use our quick check to help you find out.
From there, a review of existing arrangements can help identify any gaps and give you time to address them before deadlines and further requirements come into effect.
Think your organisation could be affected?
You’ve taken the check. Now what?
Our team can help you understand how the new regulations apply to your sites, what information you need to establish your position, and what you may need to do before the relevant deadlines.
Speak to our Heat Network specialists →
Looking for further information on the Heat Network Regulations? Download our factsheet
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Our team can help you understand how the new regulations apply to your sites, what information you need to establish your position, and what you may need to do before the relevant deadlines.