DESNZ publishes consultation outcome on heat network zoning proposals
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published its response to the 2023 consultation on heat network zoning, setting out the final policy framework for identifying, designating and delivering heat network zones in England. The government confirms that a new heat network zoning authority initially housed within DESNZ and later the Warm Homes Agency will oversee national zoning standards, administer the zoning digital service and support local authorities. Local zone coordination bodies will be responsible for refining zone boundaries, running competitive developer selection processes, managing local engagement and monitoring compliance. DESNZ confirms that zoning will apply in areas where heat networks are the lowest-cost pathway to decarbonising heat, with mandatory connection requirements for new buildings, existing communally heated buildings, large non‑domestic buildings with annual heat demand above 100 MWh, and campus networks. A standardised connection process will apply, with minimum agreement and connection windows, and exemptions available on defined legal, technical or cost grounds. The government will introduce future connection cost caps to ensure required connections are no more expensive than relevant low‑carbon counterfactual systems.