Â鶹ӳ»­

The UK Government has introduced new enforcement powers to regulate heat networks across Great Britain in the . These powers are set out in the . The regulations came into effect on 27 January 2026. Ofgem is the regulator for heat networks in Great Britain, including Edinburgh. Operators of heat networks will need to meet "authorisation conditions" specified by Ofgem. You can find out more about the regulatory regime .

As part of, the new regulatory regime, the Council will:

• Register its 11 communal heat networks with Ofgem.
• Carry out condition surveys of the Council's communal heat networks and identify remedial actions.
• Develop a priority register of vulnerable customers.
• Enter into Heat Supply Agreements with all customers served by the Council's communal heat networks.
• Ensure all homes served by the Council's communal heat networks have working meters.
• Develop a transparent and consistent new tariff-setting process for the Council’s communal heat networks.

Scotland has its own legislative framework under the and the forthcoming . This framework is not yet in place, but is expected to include:

• A licencing regime, ensuring heat network operators are solvent, fit and proper and granting licence holders new rights, such as wayleaves and compulsory purchase.
• A permitting regime, granting permit holders exclusivity to build or operate heat networks in certain areas.
• A consenting regime, requiring consents to build or operate heat networks.

There are various boduies who can support heat network customers:

• The  will help resolve disputes between heat network customers and operators. The Council’s 11 communal heat networks are registered with the Energy Ombudsman.
• has been appointed as the statutory advocacy body for heat networks in Scotland. it will identify and escalate consumer issues.
• offers free expert advice to heat network customers in Scotland.
• The will help heat network customers resolve problems with their suppliers.