Ofgem regulation of heat networks begins, with simpler metering and billing rules

Heat networks have a regulator. From today, Ofgem oversees heat networks in Great Britain, bringing customers on communal and district heating closer to the protections that gas and electricity customers have had for years.

This is separate from heat network zoning. Zoning applies to England only[source] and is still waiting for regulations. Ofgem regulation covers England, Scotland and Wales, and it is in force now.

Registration within a year

Operators of existing networks don't have to have everything done on day one. They do face a firm deadline: they must register with Ofgem by 26 January 2027[source].

Plenty of organisations that run heat networks don't think of themselves as energy suppliers. A housing association or private landlord with a shared boiler feeding a block of flats is likely to be an operator for these purposes. Ofgem's guidance sets out who is in scope, and anyone unsure should read it now rather than in January 2027.

Metering and billing rules simplified

On the same day, changes to the older metering and billing rules took effect.

Operators who had planned work purely to meet a requirement that has now gone should check before spending money. The rules have been trimmed, not scrapped.

Consumer protection already in place

Ofgem's arrival builds on protections that started last year. Since 1 April 2025[source], Citizens Advice has acted as consumer advocate for heat network customers in England and Wales, and the Energy Ombudsman has handled heat network complaints.

What it means for building owners

If you own or manage a building where one plant room supplies heat or hot water to several homes or tenants, you may now be a regulated heat network operator. Start listing your systems, read Ofgem's guidance and plan to register well before the deadline. If you are a customer of a heat network, you now have a regulator behind you. Our guide to Ofgem regulation and HNTAS has a full checklist.