Heat networks regulation: authorisation and regulatory oversight

Summary

In this section we explain the range of compliance and enforcement approaches we will adopt, informed by our market-wide monitoring.

We want your feedback on our overall strategy to compliance and enforcement, and in particular:

• the proposed authorisation condition placing a duty on heat networks to take action to come into compliance
• the proposed areas of initial focus for compliance activity

Details

Overall strategy, and actions heat networks should take to come into compliance

Our compliance activity will take into account the diversity in the market. This will help ensure that heat networks:

• understand their obligations
• can self-report when non-compliance occurs
• can take steps to make the improvements required

In line with this approach, we want heat network operators to be open and cooperative with us. We also want heat networks to take any action required to come into compliance.

We are proposing these requirements be covered in authorisation conditions.

Initial focus

Our initial focus will include actions to:

• ensure heat networks register
• ensure the accurate and timely submission of data
• assess declarations made at registration for compliance with authorisation conditions

These actions will be in line with the introduction of our monitoring and audit processes.

We will also consider where we might need to focus compliance activity based on risks, including priorities for consumer protection or particular market segments.

Before you give us your views

You’ll need to read the details in the Compliance and enforcement chapter of the consultation (PDF).