Ofgem Registration · Heat Networks
Deemed authorisation is Ofgem's automatic permission for heat networks operating before 27 January 2026 to continue supplying heating. It is not an exemption from regulation — it is the starting point for it.
When Ofgem assumed regulatory responsibility on 27 January 2026, it automatically granted all qualifying existing networks permission to keep operating while the regulatory framework beds in. Being deemed authorised means you are legally permitted to continue supplying your customers. It does not mean you are compliant, and it does not remove your obligation to meet Ofgem's authorisation conditions or to register.
Any heat network supplying more than one property from a shared source that was operating before 27 January 2026. New networks starting after that date must apply for authorisation before operating.
Failing to register by the deadline puts you in breach of your deemed authorisation conditions. Ofgem has stated it will take a fair and pragmatic approach early on, but registration is a legal requirement and Ofgem has enforcement powers including financial penalties.
No. It permits you to operate. You must still actively meet all authorisation conditions.
No. It was granted automatically on 27 January 2026 to all qualifying networks.
If it supplies more than one property from a shared source, almost certainly yes.
Deemed authorisation continues unless Ofgem takes enforcement action. However, failing to register by 26 January 2027 places you in breach of your deemed authorisation conditions and opens you to enforcement action.