Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what his Department's planned timetable is for the full implementation of the heat network regulatory framework.

Government has introduced statutory redress through the energy ombudsman and statutory advice and advocacy through Citizens Advice and Consumer Scotland for heat network consumers from April 2025. The Department has subsequently introduced Ofgem as the heat network regulator from January 2026. Heat network suppliers and operators have until January 2027 to register with Ofgem and supply data. Ofgem will use this to further develop the regulatory regime including informing their approach to pricing rules and guidance.

The Department have also consulted on mandating minimum technical standards for heat networks, to deliver better outcomes for consumers. A government response will be published in due course.