Citizens Advice response to Ofgem’s consultation Heat Network regulation: regular data reporting guidance
Citizens Advice welcomes the opportunity to respond to Ofgem's regular data reporting guidance consultation. We support the requirement for heat networks to collect data from 1 April 2026. Data reporting will form a key part of Ofgem’s monitoring of the sector and ensuring compliance with the new regulatory framework. It’s therefore essential that heat networks understand their data reporting obligations.
Overall, the guidance is clear and helpful where it sets out in tabular form the data points, reporting frequency and exemptions. However, we’re concerned billing data points don't capture customers who pay for heating and hot water through rent or service charges. Given the harm bundled payments can cause to consumers it’s essential this data is collected to allow Ofgem to effectively monitor any differences in outcomes for consumers who pay for their heating and hot water this way.