HNTAS is due to launch in 2026 and aims to ensure that heat networks meet a minimum level of performance and reliability, in line with the regulatory technical requirements being brought in by the UK government through the Energy Act 2023.
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Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS): Draft documents released
We know that many of you are eagerly awaiting more information on the Heat Network Technical Assurance Scheme (HNTAS) and its associated technical documents. We are therefore delighted to share the first tranche of these draft technical documents. They provide an overview of the proposed draft technical specifications and assessment procedures for new build networks.
We recognise there is a lot to get through here, as they’re the culmination of months of work led by the scheme’s technical author FairHeat. The technical specifications alone have been developed through extensive collaboration with over 100 industry representatives taking part in various technical working groups.
These documents are being released now, ahead of the formal consultation on HNTAS, to provide you time to familiarise yourself with what is being proposed. The formal consultation will cover the proposed scope of the scheme, governance structures, and assurance processes of assessment and certification.
We are still developing other aspects of the technical documents for new build networks, and for existing networks. These will be released in due course prior to the launch of the scheme in 2026.
Engagement as HNTAS has been developed
We value the expertise of the heat network sector and have undertaken extensive engagement as the scheme has been developed. To date, 190 individuals from 111 organisations have been engaged as part of the development of HNTAS so far through:
- Working groups for the development of technical requirements, which involved over 60 industry workshops.
- Working groups for the development of technical standards and associated HNTAS ‘sphere’ documents.
- The New Build Pilot scheme.
Alongside this, we have established a Stakeholder Consultation Forum to improve visibility and transparency of HNTAS policy proposals and test these with industry. The invitation list covers around 70 industry participants, including multiple trade associations and housing associations. If a member of your organisation does not already attend, and you’re interested in joining or submitting a topic for discussion, please contact HNTASEnquiries@gemserv.com.
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