Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme pilot programme launches
The development of the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS) is moving swiftly, and we are pleased to share our progress with you. This newsletter marks the beginning of our journey to keep you informed with regular updates and events.
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Current Status of the Scheme
For several months, we’ve been collaborating with our Shadow Service Provider, Gemserv supported by Fairheat, to advance HNTAS. We’ve drafted the scheme rules (called normative documents) for new-build heat networks and are now working on those for existing networks. These documents will also cover ‘pre-authorisation networks’ and End of Life networks. More details will be available in an upcoming consultation.
Technical Standards
HNTAS is a key component of our upcoming overall regulation of heat networks. By ensuring heat networks meet minimum technical standards of performance and reliability, HNTAS aims to improve consumer outcomes and address issues such as unplanned outages and inconsistent heating. HNTAS aims to reduce operation and maintenance costs as well as carbon emissions by ensuring heat networks run efficiently.
The HNTAS normative documents will outline the technical and procedural rules, supported by a new Heat Network Technical Standard (HNTS1). Based on CP1 (2020), HNTS1 will underpin the regulatory requirements of HNTAS. Our Steering Committee, composed of sector experts, is driving this effort, and we anticipate HNTS1 will be ready by mid to late 2025.
Pilot Programme
Our pilot programme is ready to commence. The first wave, which is set to include seven pilots, has begun. We’ve appointed four Assessor Organisations to evaluate these projects and have trained both Assessor Organisations and duty holders. The pilot projects span various heat network types and stages to gather comprehensive insights. Our aim is to test the scheme rules on live projects, starting with new builds and moving to existing networks in early 2025. The lessons learned will help ensure HNTAS works in practice and aligns with industry needs.
Training
We’ve developed and delivered a series of training courses under the Heat Network Training Grants scheme, covering topics like metering, insulation, and HIUs. DESNZ is also planning specific formal training courses focused on HNTAS, which will be essential for becoming a licensed Assessment Organisation, Individual Assessor, or Duty Holder. This training is expected to begin in mid to late 2025.
Looking Ahead
We aim to launch a public consultation shortly and we are also developing an HNTAS online platform to ensure accessibility and streamline user experiences. HNTAS is on track to be part of the introduction of the regulatory regime in January 2026.
For more information, please contact us at: heatnetworks@energysecurity.gov.uk
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