Heat networks regulation: implementing consumer protections
Consultation
- Upcoming
- Open
- Closed (awaiting decision)
- Closed (with decision)
- Publication date
- Closed date
- Industry sector
- Supply and Retail Market
- Related consultations
- Heat networks regulation consumer protection - Government response
Topic
Heat networks
Response: published 8 August 2025
We asked
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) published a joint consultation with Ofgem seeking further views on the consumer protection requirements that heat network operators and suppliers will need to comply with, as part of the regulatory framework.
You said
We received 153 responses to the consultation. A diverse range of stakeholders provided their views, for example this included:
- Heat Network Suppliers and Operators
- Metering organisations
- Consumer advocacies
- Trade Associations
- Leaseholders
- Local Authorities
- Social Housing Associations
- Consultancies
- Charities
- Academics
- Consumers
We have reviewed responses and considered stakeholder views. Our joint response provides a summary of responses to each question in the consultation and a brief overview of our policy proposals in each area of the different consumer protection areas.
We did
The government response outlines how we plan to take the proposals forward, whilst incorporating the feedback and evidence provided by stakeholders. Where applicable, these have been fed directly into the legislation that will implement heat network consumer protections as part of the wider market framework.
The consultation response can be found on the government website.
Consultation: published 8 November 2024
Ofgem and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) have published a joint consultation seeking further views on the consumer protection and requirements that heat network operators and suppliers will need to comply with, as part of the regulatory framework.
We are also separately consulting on our approach to authorisation, market monitoring, compliance, and enforcement. The link to this consultation can be found in the related links.
Who should respond
We would like to hear the views of people with an interest in heat networks and particularly welcome responses from:
- heat network operators and suppliers
- asset owners
- energy services companies
- social housing providers
- building and estate asset managers
- local authorities
- metering and billing agents
- consumer groups
- trade associations
- managing agents
- heat network consultants
- landlords
- heat network consumers
Background
The Energy Act 2023 named Ofgem as the future regulator for heat networks in Great Britain.
Our most recent Forward Work Programme outlines how we intend to develop a regulatory framework for heat networks which is proportionate, in line with our duties to protect consumers, and which supports:
- investment
- market growth
- meeting the government’s net zero targets
The focus is on areas where we require additional stakeholder views to finalise proposals, and we are seeking feedback on draft Authorisation Conditions.
As part of this consultation, we are also seeking views on step-in proposals, which are measures to mitigate the risk and impact of heat network failure.
Why your views matter
Your feedback will help us develop new regulations to protect consumers and improve network reliability, while allowing growth in the sector.
How to respond
The consultation and details on how to respond can be found on the government’s website.
If you would like any more information, please email heatnetworks@energysecurity.gov.uk and heatnetworksregulation@ofgem.gov.uk.