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. and all heat networks are required to register in this service by 27 January 2027. 
Building Trust and Reliability
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.
The Digital Service is now open for registration
Ofgem has now launched a new digital service in private beta: 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. 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.
A Service Shaped by Users
Before a digital service can go live, it needs to be tested with the people who will use it. Launching in private beta means Ofgem is testing the service with users who expressly opt in, so we can learn and refine to ensure it genuinely meets sector needs and is clear and easy to use. The service has been developed with user needs and feedback at its heart, with over 260 user research sessions already carried out with a wide range of industry users.
What You Need to Do
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.
Operators and suppliers who want to join the private beta testing phase can find more information on taking part and registering on Ofgem's website, which also includes supporting materials to make the registration process as smooth as possible. 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 at heatnetworksregulation@ofgem.gov.uk.
Images © Ofgem
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