Heat networks regulation: authorisation and regulatory oversight

Summary

In this section, we explain how our proposed monitoring framework will ensure heat networks meet their obligations. We also explain how it will give us oversight in the market.

In particular, we want your feedback on our approach to implementing the framework, and the proposed:

• reporting metrics
• reporting levels
• reporting frequency
• start date of ongoing monitoring

Details

Approach to implementing the monitoring framework

The monitoring framework will run alongside the Heat Networks Technical Standards reporting overseen by the Code Manager.

The relevant rules for the particular heat network authorisation will dictate reporting requirements. We will provide these requirements in a Request for Information (RFI).

We will gather regular monitoring data either as a declaration (Yes or No) or as a data point, via our digital service.

Reporting metrics 

Our proposed regular data reporting metrics fall broadly into the following categories:  

• general heat network information 
• step-in and financial monitoring 
• billing and payment method 
• meter installation and changes 
• pricing 
• vulnerability and debt 
• quality of service 

Details on the individual metrics are included in the relevant section of the consultation document. You’ll find it in the ‘Before you give us your views’ section this page.

Reporting levels

We propose collecting regular monitoring data at 3 levels of reporting:

• authorisation level (collected from the authorised supplier or operator)
• heat network level (for metrics where we need oversight of individual district or communal heat networks within an authorisation)
• building level (for district networks where we need information from individual buildings within the network)

The level of reporting will depend on the metric in question.

Reporting frequency

We want to use quarterly reporting as the baseline frequency for the majority of metrics. This is similar to a range of reporting in the gas and electricity retail market.

We want to use annual reporting for financial information and metrics that are not expected to change frequently.  

Before you give us your views

You’ll need to read the full details in the Monitoring chapter of the consultation (PDF).