From Compliance to Assurance: A Practical Heat Network Roadmap for Local Authorities

Heat networks are both a tried and tested technology established across the UK and an area of governmental focus for future growth. They have operated within a relatively narrow compliance regime but are moving to a more regulated utility-style environment. Local

authorities have previously concentrated on whether a communal or district system fell within the Heat Network (Metering and Billing) Regulations, whether notification was required, whether meters had to be installed and how bills should be calculated. However since January 2026, Ofgem’s heat network authorisation conditions have introduced requirements covering matters such as standards of conduct, service quality, fair pricing, bills and information, complaints, support for consumers in vulnerable situations, continuity of supply and regulatory reporting. Technical assurance will come next as the government plans to launch the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS) in 2027. Still under development, it will look at measurable performance, reliable metering and monitoring, evidence[1]based improvement and independent assessment and certification. So, this is a dynamic area of work and one where those responsible need to remain up to date.

This document provides a range of information to cover the regulatory framework and help those with responsibilities for networks stay informed.

It is often the case that there is a lack of capacity or skills to ensure compliance, undertake vital feasibility work for new networks or to investigate the efficiency of existing networks. APSE Energy can support councils through such projects.   

For further information about APSE Energy, please contact Phil Brennan, Head of APSE Energy on 0161 772 1810 or at [email protected] or James Jefferson, Principal Advisor at [email protected]

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