Heat networks regulation: authorisation conditions for Registration, Nominated operator, and Notification of changes

Overview

We are consulting on 3 draft authorisation conditions for entities authorised to operate or supply heat networks in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales). 

A further 23 draft authorisation conditions were included in the Ofgem and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) 2025 response to the joint consultation on implementing consumer protections for heat networks. 

Who should respond 

We would like to hear views from people with an interest in heat networks and particularly welcome responses from: 

• heat network operators
• heat network suppliers
• other parties supporting operators and suppliers to meet regulatory obligations

Background 

The Energy Act 2023 named Ofgem as the future regulator for heat networks in Great Britain. 

Our most recent Forward Work Programme outlines the work we are doing in 2025 and 2026, including how we are preparing for our new regulatory responsibilities for heat networks and beginning implementation of the new regulatory regime in January 2026. 

Authorisation conditions will create regulatory obligations and apply to authorised persons undertaking regulated activity on heat networks. We are consulting on an updated version of the Registration authorisation condition, and the two new conditions for nominated operator and notification of changes. 

This consultation builds on the approaches described in: 

• our 2025 decision on heat networks authorisation and regulatory oversight 
• the 2025 Ofgem-DESNZ joint response on implementing consumer protections for heat networks 

• the Heat Networks (Market Framework) Regulations 2025 Statutory Instrument (HNMFR SI) (the regulations) 

Before you start 

Read the 'Heat networks regulation: authorisation conditions for Registration, Nominated operator, and Notification of changes' consultation document. You’ll find it in the ‘Related’ section on this page. Please refer to it when giving us your views. 

Why your views matter 

Your feedback will help us develop new regulations to protect consumers and improve network reliability, while allowing growth in the sector.