Citizens Advice response to DESNZ consultation on heat network zoning

Citizens Advice response to heat network zoning consultation 158 KB

Citizens Advice believes that heat networks have an important role to play in providing sustainable and affordable heat to homes and businesses as the UK moves towards net zero. We also recognise that a lack of certainty over the number of buildings which will be willing to connect to a heat network currently acts as a barrier to investment in building new heat networks. Overall, therefore, we support the creation of heat network zones to send a clear signal to developers, consumers and businesses that heat networks are likely to be the most sustainable and efficient way to deliver heat in the area and provide more certainty to investors. However, wherever possible the emphasis should be on making a positive case for joining a heat network voluntarily, rather than falling back on the power to compel consumers and businesses to join. This is particularly important due to the fact that once a building is connected to a heat network it is extremely difficult, or even impossible, to leave the heat network and switch to a different heat source. If the Government does move ahead with heat network zoning it is vital that the policy is designed and implemented with consumer interests and protection at its heart to ensure that consumers don’t experience harm and the reputation of heat networks isn’t damaged. Harm to consumers and the reputation of heat networks can be avoided by ensuring that:

 ● Homes and businesses are only compelled to join heat networks where this is truly the most efficient and cost effective way for them to access decarbonised heating. Even where this is the case, every effort should be 2 made to encourage voluntary connections through making a positive case before resorting to compulsion. 

● Quality, affordability and customer satisfaction are not sacrificed in favour of maximising profits for heat network operators, developers and investors. 

● Consumers are able to resolve any problems quickly and with minimum hassle, and receive appropriate compensation.

 ● No consumer or business is materially disadvantaged by moving to a heat network, in terms of the quality and reliability of their heat supply or the amount they pay for their heat. This is particularly important in cases where they have been compelled to join the heat network. We recognise that this is a complex balance to strike, but it is an important high-level principle.