Ofgem confirms regulation for Heat Networks

Today, Ofgem has commenced the statutory regulation of heat networks, building on legislation that allows heat network consumers and small businesses to raise their heat disputes with Energy Ombudsman.

The new regulation will include:

• Consumer protection standards
• Rules on pricing transparency
• Complaint handling and redress

Ed Dodman, Chief Ombudsman of Energy Ombudsman, commented; “The regulation of heat networks is an important step in strengthening protections for all consumers across the UK energy sector and builds on the legislation that came into place in April 2025.

“It’s particularly important that vulnerable heat network consumers in shared residential developments – including student accommodation, assisted living schemes and social housing – also now have access to our free and impartial service, and the opportunity to resolve heat disputes through Energy Ombudsman.”

Since the legislation came into effect in April 2025, Energy Ombudsman has seen just over 290 heat network suppliers register with the service, with more than 3,000 heat network sites listed to date. However, it’s been estimated that there are over 14,000 operational heat network sites in the UK; a figure which should be confirmed over the next 12 months as Energy Ombudsman assists Ofgem with their digital registration period, commencing in Spring 2026.

Helena Charlton, Director of Heat Networks at Ofgem, added: “Ofgem is committed to putting consumers first, and the beginning of heat network regulation marks an important step towards better protections.

"This change means consumers will begin to benefit from stronger protections on billing, complaints, and support for those in vulnerable situations. Heat networks can deliver efficient, cost-effective heating - but there are instances where this is not the case. This framework will set important standards for consumers to rely on, backed up by our oversight.”

Today’s regulation change means it’s now more critical than ever for heat network suppliers to register with Energy Ombudsman’s service, as this provides the best possible opportunity to resolve disputes efficiently, whilst demonstrating to consumers they are accountable and committed to providing good service.

Minister for Energy Consumers, Martin McCluskey, commented: “For too long customers on heat networks have been unprotected, being hit with unfair price rises and having to manage with hugely inconvenient service outages.

“It’s simply not good enough - and that is why from today, we’re giving Ofgem new powers to act and hold heat network suppliers operating a poor-quality service to account.

“Support is already available through the Energy Ombudsman, and I would encourage anyone with an ongoing issue with their heat network to get in touch with them and take advantage of these new consumer rights.”

Do you have a dispute with your heat network supplier? 

If you, or your small business, has a dispute with a heat network supplier, we may be able to help. Visit our process page for more information and search for your supplier when you're ready to register your dispute.

Relevant information

• 'Heat networks regulation is now live' [Ofgem]
• Information on Heat Networks [Ofgem]
• Register your Heat Network [Energy Ombudsman]
• 'Heat network customers to be shielded from unfair price hikes' [GOV.UK]