Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched a public consultation on proposals for Northern Ireland’s first locally led regulatory framework for heat networks.
The Department for the Economy said the measures are intended to strengthen consumer protections while creating a regulatory environment to support future development of the sector. The consultation will run for eight weeks and is open until Thursday 1 October 2026.
Heat networks distribute heat from a central source to homes, businesses and public buildings through insulated underground pipes. The department said they can reduce the need for individual boilers and may form part of a shift towards cleaner, more efficient and cost-effective heating.
The department said heat networks are already widely used across Europe and elsewhere, and can reduce reliance on fossil fuels by using local and renewable heat sources. It said a regulatory framework would also provide confidence to investors, support growth in the sector and create skilled green jobs in the region.
Dr Archibald said in the department’s announcement that consumers must have confidence they will be treated fairly as heat networks become a more important part of the clean energy system. She said the proposals cover clear information, accurate billing and routes for resolving complaints.
Around 3,000 consumers in Northern Ireland are currently supplied by heat networks, according to the department. It said a Spatial National Heat Study for District Heating Potential in Northern Ireland, published in May 2025, indicated significant potential to meet heat demand with low-carbon heat networks.