Session overview

Following our previous session in November 2025 on heat network regulation, the landscape has continued to evolve. New requirements are emerging that will materially affect how social housing providers design, deliver and manage heat networks.

This session provides a practical update on the implementation of the Heat Network Regulations and what they mean in operational terms for the housing sector. It will also introduce the new Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS), unpacking its role in raising standards and exploring the implications for planning, compliance and long-term asset performance.

This is a critical moment for the sector. Heat networks are central to many organisations’ decarbonisation strategies, but the regulatory bar is rising. This session will help members understand what is changing, what good preparation looks like, and how providers can respond with greater confidence.

Key takeaways

By attending this session, participants will gain:

• A clear update on where the Heat Network Regulations have landed
• A better understanding of HNTAS, how it works and why it matters
• Insight into the practical implications for asset strategy, development and compliance
• Early lessons from implementation in a social housing context
• A clearer view of the challenges, risks and opportunities emerging as the regulatory framework develops

About the speakers

Peter Horne – Head of Compliance, FairHeat
Peter leads on regulatory compliance at FairHeat and has been closely involved in shaping the new heat network standards at a national level. He brings direct insight into the intent behind the regulations and how organisations should respond in practice.

Gareth Wright – Head of Sustainability, InCommunities
Gareth has hands-on experience delivering and managing heat network projects within a social housing provider. He will share practical lessons from implementation, including challenges, risks and what good looks like on the ground.

Who should attend?

This session is designed for development directors, asset management leaders, sustainability leads and compliance professionals responsible for heat networks and decarbonisation delivery.

It will be particularly useful for those who need to understand the latest regulatory developments, assess organisational readiness, and make informed decisions about the future design, delivery and management of heat networks.