The UK Government responds to consultation for heat network zoning
Late last year, the UK Government held a consultation on the proposed approach to deliver heat network zoning and how to identify areas where heat networks are the most appropriate solution for decarbonising heating.
The UK Government received feedback from 101 stakeholders ranging from local authorities and trade associations to academic institutes and energy companies.
Given the response to the consultation, the UK Government intent to proceed with key elements of the proposed framework including:
Development of a nationwide methodology for identifying and designing areas as heat network zones,
Establish a new zoning coordinator role, which will be fulfilled by local government.
Heat networks to be developed in zones to meet a low carbon requirement, and for certain buildings and heat sources within zones to connect to a heat network within a specific timeframe
Ofgem will ensure all heat network consumers are provided with effective protections including those living within zones.
Responses to the consultation will help shape and inform primary legislation needed to deliver this policy.