LET’S TALK ABOUT HNTAS

Big changes are coming to heat networks – and they’re good news for residents. If your heating comes from a communal or district heat network, things are about to improve.

From January 2026, the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS) will kick in, introducing new rules to boost performance, protect consumers, and bring heat networks up to the same standards as gas and electricity suppliers.

Here’s what’s changing and why it matters:

1. Real regulation – finally

Until now, heat networks have been largely unregulated. That’s meant inconsistent service and not enough protection for customers. HNTAS is set to change that, with mandatory technical standards and consumer safeguards.

2. Better performance and reliability

The new standards are all about making heat networks more efficient, consistent, and resilient. Think fewer breakdowns, quicker fixes, and better service overall — thanks to stricter monitoring and (likely) accreditation schemes.

3. Stronger protection for consumers

People using heat networks will now get similar rights to those on traditional energy supplies, including:

• Fairer pricing

• Clearer billing

• Access to complaints and redress schemes

This is a huge step forward for a sector that’s been playing catch-up for too long. If you manage or support properties with heat networks, now’s the time to understand what’s coming and start getting ready.