Heat Networks – Are you ready?

Towards the end of February, we attended a highly informative online event, hosted by erosh – a national consortium for older people’s housing and support, focused on how housing providers can prepare for the UK’s new heat network regulations.

As many in the sector will already be aware, a new regulatory framework for heat networks came into force on 27 January 2026, bringing heat networks under formal regulation for the first time.

This marks a significant shift. Previously, heat networks operated without the same level of oversight as gas and electricity suppliers. Under the new framework, Ofgem is now the official regulator, and network operators must register with them and meet a set of authorisation conditions designed to improve transparency, reliability and consumer protection.

The erosh event brought together a range of perspectives from across the housing and energy sectors. We heard from one of our clients, Glynis Gatenby, Operations Director at Sutton Housing Society, alongside Greg Falder, Heat Network Manager at Southern Housing, and Chris D’Arcy, Director of Client Relationships at Chirpy Heat. Each speaker provided practical insights into what the new regulations mean in practice and how providers can ensure they meet Ofgem’s deadlines and requirements.

One of the key messages from the session was that preparation cannot be left until the last minute. Housing providers operating heat networks must ensure they understand their responsibilities, gather the required technical and operational information, and prepare for registration within Ofgem’s timeframe. Networks operating before January 2027 will be automatically authorised initially, but they must still complete formal registration and comply with ongoing regulatory standards.

For providers supporting older residents or those with higher needs, these changes are especially important. Heating and hot water are essential services, and the new framework aims to ensure residents receive clearer billing, better service standards and access to independent redress if things go wrong.

Events like this are a valuable reminder that regulatory change is accelerating across housing, energy and resident safety. Staying informed and planning early helps organisations avoid compliance risks while continuing to deliver reliable services to residents.

To learn more about the new heat network regulations and the support available, head to their website.