Location: Chichester, West Sussex
Project Scope: Failing Network, Renewable Technology Integration, Tariff Restructuring, Stakeholder Engagement
Graylingwell Park is the UK’s largest carbon-neutral housing development, designed to deliver sustainable living through a large district heating system. However, during the height of the energy crisis, rising gas prices and tariff pressures threatened the affordability of heat for residents and the commercial viability of the scheme.
Hestia’s leadership team, including Aidan Hickey and Alan Wyper, were engaged to deliver a sustainable, cost-effective solution.
Our Role:
· Reviewed alternative renewable technologies suitable for integration into the energy centre.
· Specified and oversaw the installation of two large-scale biomass boilers, enabling access to the UK Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) subsidy.
· Negotiated with key stakeholders (Housing Association, the private developer, and the PRS company) to amend the Heat Supply Agreements.
· Legally and contractually re-aligned tariff structures to reflect reduced generation costs from biomass.
· Improve reliability in the network as it had seen numerous service cut offs. Back up boilers and BMS systems installed, as well as CP1 requirements instilled across network.
Outcome:
· Significant reduction in the network’s carbon footprint by displacing natural gas with renewable biomass.
· Access to RHI subsidies, enhancing long-term financial sustainability of the network.
· Reduction in customer tariffs, improving affordability for residents while protecting sales of new homes for the developer.
· Strengthened trust and collaboration across multiple stakeholder groups through successful contract renegotiation.
· System became reliable and customer satisfaction scores increased. Newfound engagement with the resident association creating close relationship going forward, beneficial to all parties.
This project highlights Hestia’s ability to combine technical innovation with commercial negotiation, delivering low-carbon, low-cost outcomes that meet the needs of both end-users and developers.
Heat Network Regulation
*Link to Hestia Regulation Brochure*
Heat Network Regulation – Be Ready for Compliance
The upcoming regulation of heat networks represents one of the most significant changes the industry has ever faced.
Many heat network operators and suppliers are uncertain about what compliance will mean in practice, and with so much misinformation and speculation, it can feel overwhelming to prepare.
At Hestia, we help you cut through the noise. Our consultancy services give you clarity on what regulation involves, what steps you need to take, and how to achieve compliance smoothly and efficiently.
Why Heat Network Regulation Is Coming
The Energy Act 2023 and the Heat Networks (Scotland) Act 2021 have set the foundation for a fully regulated heat network sector.
The UK Government has confirmed that Ofgem will become the official regulator for heat networks, introducing fair pricing rules, consumer protections, and minimum technical standards.
This move towards regulation is a positive step forward.
It will increase trust, improve network performance, and support the UK’s ambition to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
Key Changes You Need to Know
Ofgem: The New Heat Network Regulator
From January 2026, Ofgem will enforce compliance for heat networks, similar to its role in the electricity and gas industries. Operators and suppliers will be required to register with Ofgem and meet a new set of compliance obligations.
Technical Standards (HNTAS)
The Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS) will set clear performance and reliability benchmarks. It will apply to everything from network design to long-term maintenance, covering both new and legacy systems. Meeting these technical standards will be essential for proving compliance.
Consumer Protection and Advice
From April 1st, 2025, heat network customers will have access to stronger protections and independent support:
- Energy Ombudsman – to resolve complaints fairly and transparently.
- Citizens Advice and Consumer Scotland – to provide free, impartial advice to heat network users.
These measures are designed to improve customer confidence and ensure service quality is consistent across the industry.
Heat Network Zones
The Energy Act 2023 introduces heat network zoning, where local authorities identify areas best suited for heat networks.
These zones will receive targeted investment and resources to maximise efficiency and environmental impact, accelerating low-carbon heating in homes and businesses.
Heat Network Efficiency Scheme (HNES)
HNES is a government-funded programme designed to help upgrade existing networks, focusing on:
- Improving operational efficiency.
- Reducing heat loss.
- Cutting costs for end users.
Funding will be available to support projects across England and Wales.
Reporting and Data Requirements
Ofgem and HNTAS will require operators to collect and submit detailed information, including:
- Customer numbers and usage data.
- Network performance metrics.
- Billing and financial reports.
Strong reporting systems will be essential to maintain compliance and demonstrate network transparency.
How Hestia Can Support You
At Hestia, we provide specialist consultancy services to guide you through every stage of compliance.
We help operators and suppliers:
- Understand the full scope of new regulations.
- Assess current processes and identify gaps.
- Develop a clear roadmap to compliance.
- Train teams on regulatory best practices.
- Ensure reporting systems are set up correctly and efficiently.
Our team combines deep industry expertise with a practical, client-focused approach, giving you peace of mind during this period of change.
Stay Ahead of Regulation
Don’t wait until 2026 to take action. By preparing now, you can avoid disruption and build stronger, more reliable heat networks.
Contact us today to find out how Hestia can help your organisation become regulation ready.