Metering & Billing
The Challenge
Heat Suppliers must ensure that the Heat Networks they operate are compliant with the Heat Network (Metering and Billing) Regulations introduced in 2014 and amended in 2015 and 2020. Many heat networks across the UK established prior to this legislation are now non-compliant and as such, their operators at risk of enforcement action.
The purpose of the regulations is to drive energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions from heating. Energy efficiency gains are achieved through the installation of metering and billing solutions based on consumption, which will decrease the use of energy and reduce consumer bills, and result in associated carbon emission savings. Average savings of 20% on annual consumption are estimated for domestic dwellings where metering devices are installed, whilst ensuring fair and transparent billing for customers using district and communal heat networks.
Legislative Requirements
The Heat Network Metering and Billing requirements can be summarised into 3 categories. Primarily, heat network providers must provide notification of the heat network to the Government in terms of its status and capacity, and subsequently, they must establish a sufficient metering, & billing system to manage use of the heat network.
In most scenarios, heat network providers are required to install an adequate heating system and ensure the system receives ongoing operation, maintenance, and replacement of meters. Meters must accurately measure, memorise, and display consumption of heating/cooling.
Additionally, the Heat Supplier must ensure that bills for the consumption of heating, cooling or hot water are accurate. This can be based on actual consumption, and contain all the billing information specified within The Regulations. Through having access to this data, customers can view their energy used and how much they have been charged. Compliance with these legislative requirements are a challenge for many heat network providers across the UK. Particularly those who are unable to accurately track the energy consumption within their housing stock.
