Don't hit snooze on your heat networks |
Fresh year, fresh updates, let's start strong |
A new year is the perfect time to reset. And with Ofgem officially becoming the regulatory body for heat network regulations, 2026 is the year to get your operations in order. So why not make your new year's resolution to tackle your heat network's processes, reporting, and resident engagement so it runs smoother, and you can build trust and stays ahead of regulatory scrutiny.
Emily McAlindon
Commercial Director |
U P D A T E S F R O M T H E F I E L D
New year, new website |
We’ve kicked off 2026 with a brand-new website, designed to support both heat network suppliers, operators , and the residents they serve.
From operator-focused resources and compliance guidance to resident-friendly FAQs and support information, the site brings everything together in one place. It’s built to improve understanding of heat networks, increase transparency, and make it easier to reach our team.
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F R O M T H E T O O L B O X
A clean slate: 4 smart habits for compliance in 2026 |
Ofgem is now the heat network regulator, and this is the year regulations will be confirmed. Starting small and staying consistent, is the easiest way to stay ahead and form habits that last well past January. |
1. Familiarise yourself with the new regulatory set-up
The regulatory landscape has changed. Ofgem is the regulator, DESNZ sets policy, and the Energy Ombudsman (EO) plays a key role in consumer protection. Understanding who does what and when requirements come into force, is the essential first step. Getting clear on timelines now will make future registration and reporting far smoother. |
2. To meter is to know
From April 2026, heat network data will need to be reported and the most reliable way to collect accurate data is through compliant metering. Meters underpin everything from consumption reporting to fair billing and performance monitoring. Reviewing your metering strategy now puts you in control of the data you’ll soon be expected to provide. |
3. Track the data, ensure transparency
Good compliance isn’t just about collecting data, it’s about using it well and being transparent. Tracking consumption, outages, complaints, and billing data supports regulatory reporting while also improving operational insight and customer confidence. Embedding these processes into day-to-day management now will make future reporting far more straightforward. |
4.Turn consumer protection into trust
Clear billing, accessible complaints processes, and well-documented contracts are now core expectations. Reviewing and improving resident communications reduces queries, builds confidence, and strengthens relationships. |
S E A S O N A L S I Z Z L E
Make winter work for your network |
January is the month to turn reflection into action. These three focus areas will help your team strengthen operations, reduce stress, and stay compliant without adding work: |
1. Refresh resident communications
StepChange saw its busiest day in over a year on the first Monday of January; a clear reminder that many households are under pressure. Clear, transparent communications, billing, and escalation paths can help residents to feel informed, confident, and supported through peak-use months. |
2. Prepare your network for heat demand
Cold spells put extra pressure on equipment, teams, and response times. A quick early‑year check of HIU health trends, meter performance, and service response data can highlight small fixes before they become winter‑long issues. This helps reduce outages, call volumes, and stress for both your team and residents. |
3. Review tariff alignment
Winter = higher usage. Check that standing charges, unit rates, and billing structures take fluctuating consumption and regulatory requirements into account. A small adjustment now can prevent complaints later. |
Have questions, feedback, or just want to say hi? Reach out: |
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