Minister publishes letter to heat network operators

Energy Minister Claire Perry has written an open letter encouraging all heat network operators to join the voluntary Heat Trust scheme, in order to raise consumer protection standards ahead of legislation being introduced. This follows a Westminster Hall Debate on 19 February 2019.The ADE published a briefing for members that is available here.As part of the letter, Rt Hon Claire Perry MP said:I encourage all owners and operators of heat networks who are not currently registered with Heat Trust and who do not offer equivalent standards to consider joining. The quality standards that the voluntary scheme sets out will give your consumers important reassurance and protections.Lily Frencham, Head of Operations at the ADE said:Heat Networks are vital to ensuring a cost effective move to a low carbon Britain. Putting customers at the heart of these networks is key and that's why clear independent standards are needed. It is excellent to see the Minister for Energy and Clean Growth, Claire Perry MP, calling for networks to join Heat Trust.Bindi Patel, Head of Scheme at Heat Trust said:Heat networks need to work for customers, and at Heat Trust we have been working to promote better customer service practices in the heat network sector since 2015. The standards we set are designed to ensure customers benefit from a level of service and protection that is comparable to the rest of the energy market.We support the call for regulation, but proactive action is needed now. We welcome the Minister’s letter encouraging all heat networks to join Heat Trust. With over three years’ experience, Heat Trust can support the market to ensure heat suppliers are equipped and prepared for future regulation.We also recognise that as the market evolves, so too should our standards. We are keen to work and engage with all types of suppliers to understand their needs and help inform future development of the scheme.BEIS noted that if operators have difficulties meeting Heat Trust standards they should contact BEIS setting out the nature of their concerns: please email heatnetworks@beis.gov.uk.The letter can be read in full here.The Heat Trust press release can be read here.