Just one in four aware of heat network zoning rules, Baxi finds
UK – Just 24% of housing associations and local authorities surveyed by Baxi were aware of heat network zoning regulations, despite 82% rating their understanding of heat networks as high or very high.
The research, involving 100 housing associations and 102 local authorities and councils, also found that only 38% recognised the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS), highlighting gaps in regulatory awareness as the sector faces significant changes.
New regulations bring additional responsibilities
Heat network zoning is intended to identify areas in England where district heating offers a cost-effective route to decarbonisation. Under government plans, certain buildings within designated zones, including new developments and existing buildings with communal heating, could be required to connect to district heating networks, subject to exemptions.
Ofgem introduced consumer protection regulations for heat networks in January 2026, covering billing, customer service and vulnerable consumers. Existing networks within the scope of the regulations must register by 26 January 2027.
Meanwhile, HNTAS is planned for phased introduction from 2027, establishing technical standards and compliance assessments for new and existing heat networks.
Confidence masks knowledge gaps
Despite limited awareness of individual regulations, 76% of respondents were confident in their plans for heat networks and associated requirements. Confidence was higher among housing associations (85%) than local authorities (68%).
Follow-up interviews found that technical and regulatory expertise was often concentrated among a small number of staff, while uncertainty over future HNTAS requirements was affecting investment decisions.
Improving energy monitoring, heating controls and building management systems was the most common priority (42%), followed by developing or connecting new networks (40%) and upgrading existing systems (33%).
Baxi calls for clearer guidance
Baxi has urged the government to establish a phased HNTAS implementation programme, protect and expand Heat Network Efficiency Scheme funding and develop recognised industry skills pathways. It also wants safeguards to prevent additional compliance costs falling unfairly on residents.
Jeff House, Director of External Affairs and Policy at Baxi, said: “It’s encouraging to see from our research that there is high confidence in heat networks amongst social housing providers, but we’d like to see the government remove the barriers slowing progress.”
