In January 2026, Ofgem launched new consumer protection rules to begin regulating the heat networks sector in Great Britain. This was a major milestone that will, over time, change how these services operate, putting consumers at the heart of everything they do. Ofgem have now launched a new digital service, and all heat networks are required to register in this service by 26 January 2027. The clock is already ticking, so registering now means you avoid a last-minute rush and give yourself time to get things right and ensure that Ofgem can provide any support needed ahead of the deadline.
Why Registration Matters to you and your residents
The introduction of regulation focuses on creating a reliable, trustworthy environment - encouraging investment in heat networks, while giving customers the confidence they have a right to expect. Many heat network customers already receive a good service, but too many people have faced unclear bills, poor communication, or uncertainty about what to do when things go wrong.
Over time, the regulations mean that all customers will be able to understand their bills, trust that prices are fair, rely on their heat supply, and know how to get help. These are protections that are commonplace for customers of gas and electricity companies. Heat network customers can expect the same in future.
Supporting the sector
Building on these foundations, Ofgem wants a regulatory regime that enables the growth of a modern heat networks sector that is integrated into the wider energy system and plays its part in decarbonising Great Britain. By providing a stable regulatory environment, investors can have the confidence to develop innovative and flexible solutions - new services and technologies that enable customers to better manage their heat usage, or heat network operators providing flexibility to the wider energy system.
Ofgem is also committed to working with the government to support plans for growth through zoning policy and the wider aims set out in the Warm Homes Plan.
Register Now: The Digital Service Is Open
Ofgem has now launched a new digital service: Comply with Heat Networks Consumer Protection Regulations.
Under the new regulations, existing heat network operators and suppliers are required to register their heat network/s on the digital service by 26 January 2027. With the deadline now just over four months away, operators and suppliers are encouraged to begin the registration process as soon as possible, rather than waiting until nearer the cut-off date. The digital service is the central place where heat network operators and suppliers interact with Ofgem and demonstrate compliance, including updating details, and managing users.
We’ve created a video series to support heat network operators and suppliers in registering their heat networks using our digital service. The series is available to watch now on the Ofgem YouTube channel.
Take Action Today
Ofgem encourages all heat network suppliers and operators to join the Energy Ombudsman heat networks scheme prior to January 2027. However, all authorised heat networks are bound by the scheme terms, even if they are not yet registered as a member.
Provided heat networks have the necessary information to hand, the registration process itself will not take long. The digital service has been designed based on extensive user research to make registration as straightforward as possible, with guidance built in throughout to support you. Operators and suppliers who want to start their registration journey can find more information on Ofgem's website, which also includes supporting materials to make the registration process as smooth as possible.
Regulation of this sector is still new, and Ofgem expects to learn together with the sector and adapt over time. The shared goal is to improve outcomes for consumers, working collaboratively with suppliers and operators to achieve this. In some cases, the heat network is one part of a broader housing service being provided. How the rules apply will depend on a variety of factors, including, for example whether the heat network is metered or unmetered and whether the heat supplier has existing obligations under housing legislation, where heat might be included in rent or service charges.
You can stay up to date about heat networks regulation and supporting activities by joining Ofgem’s mailing list or contact us with any queries at heatnetworksregulation@ofgem.gov.uk.
Images © Ofgem
- Log in to post comments