Get ahead of the deadline: Ofgem’s digital service is open for heat networks to register

Ofgem are urging all heat networks to register on their digital service, ahead of the mandatory deadline of 26 January 2027. The benefits of registering early are to ensure that you can access support from our team if you need to and identify any gaps you may have in the information you will need to provide.

In January 2026, Ofgem launched new consumer protection rules to begin regulating the heat networks sector in Great Britain. This was a major milestone that will, over time, change how these services operate, putting consumers at the heart of everything they do. Ofgem are urging all heat networks to register on their digital service, ahead of the mandatory deadline of 26 January 2027. The benefits of registering early are to ensure that you can access support from our team if you need to and identify any gaps you may have in the information you will need to provide.

Heat networks are a vital component of the transition to net zero, providing an efficient, scalable route to decarbonising heat across our buildings and communities. A stable regulatory framework attracts the long-term investment the sector needs to expand and modernise. In Scotland, this directly supports Local Heat and Energy Efficiency Strategies, the locally-led plans through which councils are driving the decarbonisation of homes and buildings by 2045. This new regulation helps create the conditions for heat networks to fulfil their potential as a low-carbon solution at scale.

Building Trust and Reliability

The introduction of regulation focuses on creating a reliable, trustworthy environment – encouraging investment in heat networks, while giving customers the confidence they have a right to expect. Many heat network customers already receive a good service, but too many people have faced unclear bills, poor communication, or uncertainty about what to do when things go wrong.

Over time, the regulations mean that all customers will be able to understand their bills, trust that prices are fair, rely on their heat supply, and know how to get help. These are protections that are commonplace for customers of gas and electricity companies. Heat network customers can expect similar in future.

The Digital Service is now open for registration

With more than 14,000 heat networks across Great Britain, varying in type, size, and complexity, Ofgem has developed a digital-first approach to regulation that is accessible, proportionate, and built around the needs of the sector. To access the service to register please visit our web page Comply with Heat Networks Consumer Protection Regulations.

Under the new regulations, existing heat network operators and suppliers are required to register their heat network/s on the digital service by 26 January 2027. The digital service is the central place where heat network operators and suppliers interact with Ofgem and demonstrate compliance, including updating details, and managing users.

We’ve created a video series to support heat network operators and suppliers in registering their heat networks. The series is available to watch now on the Ofgem YouTube channel. As well as supporting materials to make the registration process as smooth as possible.

What you need to do if you operate a heat network or supply heat to consumers, domestic or non-domestic

Review the new regulatory rules Heat networks – Publications – Ofgem Public Register.

Create an account as soon as possible and start to add your heat networks.

Since 1 April 2025, the Energy Ombudsman can handle disputes related to all heat networks. We encourage all suppliers to join the Energy Ombudsman heat networks scheme prior to January 2027. However, all authorised heat networks are bound by the scheme terms, even if they have joined yet.

For more information on the Scottish Governments approach to heat networks including access to apply for funding see their web page Heat networks – Renewable and low carbon energy – gov.scot.

You can stay up to date about heat networks regulation and supporting activities by joining Ofgem’s mailing list by completing our mailing list request form.

If you have any questions about registration please contact us on heatnetworksregulation@ofgem.gov.uk.

How the rules apply

In some cases, the heat network is one part of a broader housing service being provided. How the rules apply will depend on a variety of factors, including, for example whether the heat network is metered or unmetered and whether the heat supplier has existing obligations under housing legislation, where heat might be included in rent or service charges.