Heat networks regulation: registration guidance

Feedback updated 23 Jan 2026

We asked

We consulted on the draft registration guidance to support implementation of the heat networks regulatory framework. The guidance is designed to help authorised persons determine whether their activities are in scope, understand how to register, and clarify responsibilities in settings with multiple operators. The consultation sought stakeholder views on whether the draft guidance was clear and fit for purpose.

You said

We received 21 responses from a range of stakeholders including:

operators
suppliers
housing associations
consumer organisations
trade bodies
Ombudsman
Energy consultant

Stakeholders broadly supported the draft guidance, valuing clarity on regulated roles and exemptions. Feedback called for clearer explanation of treatment of connected or embedded networks, a decision framework for determining ‘substantial control’ over heat network assets and included general requests for proportionality in the approach to regulation of small or self-supply heat networks. Stakeholders also requested more detail on registration processes, supplier and operator dependencies, vulnerability data handling, and practical examples for complex arrangements.

We did

We have made updates to the final registration guidance to address stakeholder feedback. The guidance will be strengthened by:

Adding examples further detail and examples for self-supply and industrial heat networks.

Setting out illustrative factors for determining ‘substantial control’ and providing worked examples for complex cases.

Confirming that registration will be managed through a digital service, clarifying service features and our intention to publish additional resources to support the service.

For networks with multiple operators, the guidance continues our non-prescriptive approach to avoid impacting established arrangements. It clarifies that nominated operators serve as the primary regulatory contact without assuming liability for others, with expectations applied proportionately on a case-by-case basis.

View our consultation decision (PDF, 183KB)

Published responses

View submitted responses where consent has been given to publish the response.

Overview

We are consulting on our draft guidance for heat networks registration.

This guidance supports authorised persons undertaking operation or supply on a relevant heat network during the first part of the initial period. It explains roles and responsibilities, registration requirements, and obligations under the Registration and Nominated Operator authorisation conditions.

It also includes specific guidance for registering Shared Ground Loop (SGL) heat networks and outlines what happens after registration is completed.

Who should respond

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

heat network operators
heat network suppliers
energy service companies
housing providers
consumer groups
asset owners
metering and billing agents
trade associations

Background

This follows our consultations:

Heat networks regulation: authorisation and regulatory oversight which set out our policy on this topic
Heat networks regulation: authorisation conditions for registration, nominated operator, and notification of changes, which covered the associated draft authorisation conditions

The draft guidance document is published alongside this consultation and should be considered in conjunction with our updated authorisation conditions included in the Heat networks regulation: authorisation conditions consultation.

Our aim is to support regulated entities to understand the scope of the regulatory
framework and their registration obligations.

Before you start

Read the Heat networks regulation: registration guidance consultation document. You'll find it in the 'Related' section on this page.

Please refer to this document when giving us your views.

Why your views matter

Your feedback will help shape the final guidance to ensure it works effectively. The guidance aims to provide clarity on roles, responsibilities, and registration requirements for heat networks under the regulated framework.

Audiences

Business bill payer
Consumer groups
Energy industry employees
Heat network operators
Heat network suppliers
Household bill payer
Landlords
Local authority
Social housing providers
Trade associations

Interests

Heat networks