Ofgem’s Role & Plan

Ofgem’s role is to ensure heat networks meet the same consumer protections and technical standards already in place for electricity and gas. For PMs, this means new duties - but also clearer expectations

Key Milestones: Ofgem & DESNZ Timeline

Ofgem's role is to ensure heat networks meet the same consumer protections and technical standards already in place for electricity and gas. For PMs, this means new duties - but also clearer expectations.

Further reading: DESNZ: UK Heat Networks: Market Overview

Ofgem's Role and Plan

What Ofgem Will Do:

Introduce an authorisation process for heat suppliers.
Set and enforce consumer protection standards.
Require metering and AMR at both block and dwelling levels.
Oversee technical standards through HNTAS.
Monitor performance and enforce quality of service standards (GSOPs).
Protect vulnerable customers.
Apply penalties for non-compliance — up to £1m or 10% of revenue (whichever is greater).

Resource: Ofgem's Heat Networks regulation page

Key players with Ofgem:

UK Government (DESNZ - Department for Energy Security and Net Zero) – aligns regulations with national energy policies.
National Grid ESO – ensures stability and reliability of the electricity network.
Energy Ombudsman – manages consumer complaints and disputes.
Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) – prevents anti-competitive behaviour.
Citizens Advice – provides consumer support and guidance.

The journey is phased, but deadlines are coming fast.

What is Ofgem's role in heat networks regulation?

Authorising suppliers and enforcing standards
Monitoring technical standards
Protecting vulnerable customers