If you strip heat networks back to their fundamentals, they are actually very simple. 

• Generate heat efficiently. 
• Distribute it reliably. 
• Measure it accurately. 
• Bill it fairly. 

Yet most of the issues we see across existing residential schemes don’t come from catastrophic plant failure. They come from weaker links further downstream, usually around data visibility, billing transparency and resident confidence. 

Franklin House in Grimsby is a strong example of that.  The generation side of the scheme, delivered alongside Worcester Bosch, was robust. The plant was professionally specified and installed.

From a mechanical perspective, the backbone of the network was solid.  But as is often the case on retrofit and legacy schemes, the data layer hadn’t evolved at the same pace as the plant. 

And in 2026, that matters. 

Why Data Is the Real Backbone

There’s a misconception in parts of the industry that once the boilers are commissioned and the flow temperatures are stable, the hard work is done.  It isn’t. 

Without structured, resilient consumption data, a heat network operator is effectively operating with partial sight. You might know what’s leaving the plant room, but you don’t necessarily know how it’s being distributed, consumed or reconciled at dwelling level with confidence.  That creates risk. 

Risk in billing.  Risk in compliance.  Risk in resident trust.   

At Franklin House, the requirement wasn’t simply “collect meter readings”. It was to design a data collection architecture that was reliable, scalable and capable of supporting a seamless billing environment, without creating unnecessary disruption in an occupied residential building. 

That last point is crucial. 

The Practical Constraints of Retrofitting

When you look at traditional hard-wired M-Bus systems, they absolutely have their place. In new-build schemes where cable routes are planned from day one, they can be effective and robust  But in existing multi-storey residential blocks, retrofitting structured cabling can be invasive, expensive and inflexible.

Running new containment through communal risers, navigating fire-stopping, dealing with legacy infrastructure all while residents are living in the building,  introduces complexity very quickly. 

You can solve the data problem and create a disruption problem at the same time. 

That’s why, at Franklin House, we took a different approach. 

Designing the LoRaWAN Infrastructure

We implemented a LoRaWAN data collection protocol across the building. 

From a purely technical perspective, this allowed us to create a decentralised, wireless communication layer between the heat meters and a central gateway. Each meter transmits consumption data over long-range, low-power radio frequency, which is then securely aggregated and transferred into the billing environment. 

Why LoRaWAN? 

Because it offered the right balance between coverage, resilience and practicality for this specific building.  The reinforced concrete structure required strong signal penetration. The network needed to operate across multiple floors without reliance on continuous cable routes.

The solution had to be scalable, allowing additional meters or assets to be integrated in the future without ripping infrastructure apart. 

LoRaWAN delivered that.  Signal testing confirmed reliable coverage throughout the building envelope. Gateway positioning was optimised to minimise blind spots and maximise redundancy.

The architecture reduced single points of failure compared to centralised wired systems.  From an engineering standpoint, the result was a stable, resilient data layer underpinning the entire scheme.  But technology alone doesn’t define success. 

Secondly, it improves reconciliation. Operators can compare generation figures against aggregated dwelling consumption to identify anomalies, losses or system inefficiencies.

Thirdly, it improves compliance readiness. As regulatory oversight increases across the UK heat network sector, schemes with structured, auditable data are better positioned to adapt. 

From my perspective, accurate data is not just about billing. It is about control. When you can see what is happening across your network in near real time, you move from reactive management to proactive optimisation. 

The Real Challenge: Perception

Technically, Franklin House progressed exactly as planned.  The greater challenge came from something far less tangible: perception. 

When residents were informed that billing would be supported by remote data collection, there was understandable hesitation. The phrase “remote monitoring” can trigger concerns around privacy and cost escalation. Without context, it sounds intrusive.  And if we are honest, the heat network sector has not always done a good job of explaining itself. 

Residents often inherit systems they did not choose. They receive terminology HIUs, primary circuits, standing charges that feels technical and inaccessible.

If communication is limited, uncertainty fills the space.  At Franklin House, we made a conscious decision not to let that happen. 

The Residents’ Meeting

Rather than commissioning the system quietly and relying on post-installation documentation, we held a structured residents’ meeting. 

We explained, in plain language, what a heat meter actually measures: thermal energy consumption in kilowatt-hours. No behavioural tracking. No personal data extraction. No hidden surveillance. 

We broke down how tariffs are formed, separating standing charges from variable consumption charges. We clarified how accurate data protects residents from cross-subsidy and estimated billing. 

We also addressed the wider context.

Heat networks are becoming more regulated. Transparency is increasing. Structured data is not about increasing costs; it is about ensuring costs are distributed correctly. 

The tone of the room changed as the mechanics became clear.  Once residents understood that the system ensured they were only paying for what they used nothing more, nothing less… scepticism softened. 

This is the part of the project that doesn’t sit on a schematic diagram but arguably matters most. 

But residents don’t see those silos. 

They see one system. 

At Franklin House, generation and data were treated as two parts of the same ecosystem. That alignment is what allowed the scheme to move from “operational” to “optimised”. 

Lessons from Franklin House

There are a few clear takeaways from this project. 

Firstly, data architecture should be considered as seriously as plant specification. If you design generation without designing visibility, you are embedding risk from day one. 

Secondly, wireless protocols such as LoRaWAN are not shortcuts. When designed correctly, they can provide resilient, scalable infrastructure particularly suited to retrofit environments. 

Thirdly, resident engagement is not optional. You can install the most advanced metering system available, but if residents do not understand it, confidence will always lag behind capability. 

And finally, collaboration across disciplines matters.

Manufacturers, data specialists and billing providers need to operate as a coordinated unit rather than isolated contractors. 

Final Thoughts

Franklin House in Grimsby is not just a story about installing a LoRaWAN network.  It is a case study in aligning engineering, data and communication. 

Reliable generation provided the foundation.  Structured data collection provided visibility.  Clear engagement provided trust. 

When those three elements come together, heat networks stop feeling complex or opaque. They start feeling controlled and fair. 

As the regulatory landscape tightens and scrutiny increases across the sector, schemes that prioritise accurate data and transparent communication will be the ones that stand up to inspection, both technically and socially. 

Franklin House reinforced something I have said many times:  Heat networks are not inherently problematic.  Poor visibility and poor communication are. 

Fix those, and the rest becomes manageable. 

Got a Heat Network Challenge? Ask Daniel.

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There’s been a noticeable shift in the heat network conversation over the last year.

What used to be future-facing discussions around “what might be coming” have now become practical conversations about “what do we need in place?”. With Ofgem confirmed as the regulator and the Heat Network Market Framework moving from policy into delivery, compliance is no longer an abstract concept it’s something operators, managing agents and consultants need to actively plan for.

That’s exactly where The Heat Network Compliance Companion Playbook comes in.

Rather than adding to the growing pile of regulatory commentary, the Playbook focuses on something far more useful: helping the sector translate regulation into everyday operational decisions. And in a space as complex and interconnected as heat networks, that practical focus is what makes it so valuable.

Turning Regulation into Something Usable

One of the challenges with any new regulatory framework is that it rarely arrives in a format that feels immediately actionable. Guidance can be dense, terminology unfamiliar, and responsibilities unclear, particularly for organisations managing multiple sites with varying levels of legacy infrastructure.

What the Compliance Companion Playbook does well is bring structure and clarity to that complexity.

By framing compliance around four clear themes – metering, billing, maintenance and management. It reflects how heat networks actually operate in the real world. These aren’t standalone activities; they’re interdependent. Metering underpins billing, billing relies on accurate data, maintenance ensures continuity, and management brings it all together through governance and accountability.

That joined-up approach mirrors what many of us see on site every day. Compliance doesn’t fail because of one missing component; it succeeds when all of them work together.

From my perspective, one of the strongest aspects of the Playbook is its accessibility.

It doesn’t assume a legal or regulatory background. Instead, it speaks directly to the people responsible for making heat networks function, property managers, operators, asset managers and technical teams. The language is clear, the intent is practical, and the guidance is framed in a way that supports decision-making rather than overwhelming it.

That matters. The success of heat network regulation won’t be measured by how well the rules are written, but by how confidently they’re applied across thousands of diverse schemes. Tools like this help build that confidence.

The fact that the Playbook is interactive and openly available also sends an important signal: compliance isn’t something to be hidden behind closed doors or reserved for specialists. It’s something the entire sector can engage with, learn from and improve together.

Reflecting How Compliance Really Works

Having worked across a wide range of heat networks; from new developments to long-established legacy systems, one thing is consistent: no two sites are the same.

The Playbook acknowledges that reality. It doesn’t present compliance as a single end state, but as a process that evolves alongside the network itself. That mindset aligns closely with how compliance is delivered in practice. Networks grow, data improves, systems are upgraded, and understanding deepens over time.

By encouraging operators to understand their current position and build forward from there, the Playbook supports a measured, proportionate approach to compliance. That’s particularly important in a sector where historical design decisions still shape what’s possible today.

From Visibility to Value

The improvements from optimisation are often subtle but significant. Residents may not notice a small drop in return temperature or a corrected control loop, but the energy savings can be considerable.

In many of the networks reviewed, reinstating proper control logic, reconnecting failed actuators, or rebalancing flow and return temperatures has delivered measurable gains without major capital spend. These adjustments bring systems closer to design intent and create the data confidence needed to make informed investment choices later.

Supporting a More Confident Sector

Perhaps the most important contribution the Compliance Companion Playbook makes is cultural rather than technical.

It helps shift the conversation away from uncertainty and towards preparedness. Instead of asking “Are we going to be compliant?”, it encourages organisations to ask, “What do we need in place to demonstrate compliance?”. That’s a subtle but powerful change in mindset.

As regulation beds in, that confidence will matter. Networks that understand their data, their processes and their responsibilities will be better placed to respond to regulatory requirements, engage with residents, and operate efficiently over the long term.

Final Thoughts

The Heat Network Compliance Companion Playbook arrives at exactly the right moment for the sector.

It brings clarity to complexity, structure to uncertainty, and practicality to regulation. More importantly, it supports the people who are actually responsible for delivering compliant heat networks day in, day out.

Compliance isn’t about ticking boxes. It’s about building systems that are fair, transparent and resilient. Tools like this Playbook don’t just explain the rules, they help the sector live with them.

And as heat networks continue to play a central role in the UK’s low-carbon future, that kind of support is not just helpful, it’s essential.

Got a Heat Network Challenge? Ask Daniel.

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As we head into a new year, we want to start by saying a genuine thank you.

Thank you for the conversations, the honest questions, the challenges, and the reality checks throughout 2025. They’ve shaped what we’ve built, how we’ve supported you, and where we’re focusing next.

To bring all of that together, we’ve launched The Download – a new, short-format read designed to give you fast, focused insight without the noise.

If you’ve got five minutes and a cup of tea, this first edition is a good place to start.

What’s inside the December issue?

The December edition pulls together the themes we’ve been hearing most often this year, alongside practical resources you can use straight away.

Here’s a preview of what you’ll find inside:

Clear answers to the questions we’re asked most

From “where do I even start?” moments to specific compliance concerns, we’ve pulled together straightforward answers you can share internally and come back to when you need them.

Simpler, more practical support

An overview of how our compliance support, health checks and packages are evolving – all aimed at making things easier to understand and easier to action.

Why performance monitoring matters more than ever

As regulation tightens, gut feel and reactive fixes aren’t enough. We look at why better data and day-to-day visibility are becoming essential, not optional.

The Heat Network Compliance Companion Playbook (updated)

Including access to the updated HNMF Authorisation Conditions, the latest summary, and new checklists to help you stay on track.

A look ahead to 2026

From bespoke training packages and podcasts to new ways we’ll be supporting you through change, we share what’s coming next – and why.

You’ll also find a round-up of what we’ve been up to this year, a few lighter moments we couldn’t leave out and our end-of-year highlights.

Why we created The Download

This isn’t about adding another thing to your inbox.

The Download is designed to be short, useful and grounded in real world – bringing together guidance that stays current, tools you can use straight away, and context to help you plan with confidence.

It’s shaped by the conversations we have with you every day, and it’ll keep evolving as expectations, regulation and best practice continue to change.

Thanks for taking the time to read – and for being part of the journey with us. We’re looking forward to working with you throughout the year ahead.

Warm wishes from all of us at Data Energy and DMG Delta.

We’re helping clients prepare for MHHS ahead of migration starting in late 2025.

If you’d like to understand how this could affect your sites or metering setup, our team is here to help.

We’re thrilled to share that Data Energy has been shortlisted for ‘Best Company to Work For’ at the 2025 TELCA Awards!

The TELCAs celebrate the very best in the UK energy industry, recognising the people and businesses driving progress across the sector. To be named among the finalists is something we’re incredibly proud of – because it highlights the culture we’ve built together.

At Data Energy, we care deeply about our clients, colleagues and the communities we serve. We take responsibility for our work, put people first, and are always looking for ways to learn, grow and improve. Most importantly, we work together – supporting each other and celebrating the successes that come from true collaboration.

As Senior Energy Manager and Team Lead, Stephanie Shute, put it:

The winners will be announced on 26th November 2025 at the Underglobe in London, and we can’t wait to celebrate with all the other finalists.

Whatever the outcome, being shortlisted for this award is something we can all be proud of.

Stay in the loop with expert insights, helpful reminders and early access to our latest tools and events.

• Clear updates on regulation changes and what they mean for you
• Early access to podcasts, webinars and downloadable resources
• Practical tips to stay compliant and in control

We’re proud to announce our partnership with Guru Systems – working together to help property managers, developers, and operators simplify compliance and take control of their network performance ahead of Ofgem’s 2026 regulations.

Together, we’re making compliance clearer, smarter, and easier – turning complex data into real-world insights.

Built for Real-World Challenges

We know that managing a heat network has never been more complex. Between tightening regulations, conflicting priorities, and limited visibility of performance data, property managers are being asked to do more than ever before.

That’s why we’ve joined forces with Guru Systems. By combining their award-winning hardware and analytics with our own expertise in compliance, data collection, and billing, we’re delivering a complete, integrated solution – giving our clients the visibility, confidence, and control they need.

Why Now?

From January 2026, Ofgem will formally regulate heat networks, introducing new performance and transparency standards. Operators who don’t comply could face penalties of up to £1 million or 10% of annual revenue.

Through our partnership, we’re introducing Guru Pinpoint – a platform that gives property managers real-time visibility across their networks. It helps spot inefficiencies early, prevent costly issues, and automatically generate the performance data Ofgem will require.

We’re already supporting clients nationwide to prepare for the upcoming regulation and will soon launch a series of joint initiatives – including compliance health checks, case studies, and client training sessions – designed to help the industry achieve smarter, fairer, and greener heat networks.

If you’d like to learn more about how our partnership can support your portfolio, find out more:

Ofgem is introducing Market-Wide Half-Hourly Settlement (MHHS) – a major reform of the UK electricity market that will change how all energy use is measured and billed.

Today, only large commercial sites are settled using half-hourly data. Everyone else is billed using profiles or estimates based on average usage. MHHS will change that.

From 2025, every meter – residential or commercial – will be settled using real half-hourly data.

This shift is designed to make the energy market more accurate, flexible and efficient. It means bills will reflect real energy use, suppliers can create smarter tariffs, and the whole system will be better equipped to support renewables and demand flexibility.

Why MHHS is being introduced

MHHS supports a smarter, lower-carbon energy system and brings benefits across the board:

More accurate billing and reduced financial risk

Settling energy use half-hourly, removes the uncertainty caused by estimated profiles. That means fewer billing discrepancies and better alignment between what’s bought and what’s used.

Enabling flexible, innovative tariffs

With real-time data, suppliers can offer time-of-use tariffs, demand flexibility, and options like EV charging incentives or battery storage.

Supporting net zero

More granular data helps balance supply and demand, integrate renewables, and reduce costly peaks – all contributing to a lower-carbon grid.

Faster settlement timelines

Settlement processes will shorten from around 14 months to about 4, improving efficiency and reducing risk.

Ofgem expects MHHS to deliver £1.6 to £4.5 billion in net benefits to consumers between 2021 and 2045.

How MHHS will work

A few key changes will shape the new system:

• New roles and responsibilities
  

  Existing market roles will evolve. For example, Meter Operators and Data Collectors will transition into new services like Metering Service, Data Service, and the Market-Wide Data Service. A new role – the Meter Data Retriever (MDR) – will collect half-hourly data from smart meters for settlement.

• Centralised data systems

  A Market-Wide Data Service will handle aggregation, while a Load Shaping Service and Volume Allocation Service will estimate and allocate data for settlement.

  These systems will process huge volumes – eventually handling around 500 billion half-hourly readings each year.

• Migration of all MPANs
  

  Every meter point (MPAN) will move to the new system during an 18-month migration window starting late 2025.

• Data consent and privacy
  

  Consumer consent and data access will be managed carefully under the Retail Energy Code, ensuring privacy is protected.

Implementation timeline

We’re helping clients prepare for MHHS ahead of migration starting in late 2025.

If you’d like to understand how this could affect your sites or metering setup, our team is here to help.

We recently joined the UKDEA Heat Network Compliance Expo – a focused event bringing together housing providers, ESCOs and technical teams across the sector. With regulation on the way and authorisation just months off, it couldn’t have come at a better time.

The day was full of practical insight, open discussion and a strong sense of shared purpose. From what compliance looks like in practice to how we can work better together, it was a valuable checkpoint on the road to 2026.

Here’s what our Business Operations Manager, Katherine Baker, had to say:

Stay in the loop with expert insights, helpful reminders and early access to our latest tools and events.

• Clear updates on regulation changes and what they mean for you
• Early access to podcasts, webinars and downloadable resources
• Practical tips to stay compliant and in control

Introducing Single Sign-On (SSO) – a simpler, faster way to access your account

From 12th May 2025, we’ve made it easier for you to manage your utility account and get support online.

What is SSO?

Single Sign-On (SSO) is a streamlined and secure login process to give you access to our Customer Portal and Help Centre.

What’s Changing?

You can now use just one login (your Customer Portal login) to access both:

– The Customer Portal – where you view your bills, payments and account details.

– The Help Centre – where you can find answers to common questions or contact support.

This means no more remembering multiple usernames or passwords. Just one secure login for everything.

What do I need to do?

If you already have a Customer Portal account, you’re all set. The next time you login using your existing details, you’ll be able to access the same features, as well as our Help Centre in the same place.

– Simply go to the Customer Portal and log in as usual.

– Click the Help Centre button at the top.

– You’ll be taken straight through – no second login needed.

What do I need to do if I don’t have a Customer Portal account?

Let’s make life a little easier for you…

Simply set up your Customer Portal to get the best out of your Help Centre experience.

Want to track your questions and queries? You’ll need a Portal account to do that.

With the Portal, you can see your energy use, check past bills, make payments and more—anytime, anywhere.

It’s quick to set up! Just follow the link on your latest bill or get in touch—we’re happy to help.

One Login, Loads of Benefits

Use your Customer Portal details to make things simpler, faster, and more secure.

– Easy access – One login gets you into both your Customer Portal and our Help Centre.

– Less to remember – Fewer usernames and passwords to juggle.

– Stay secure – Centralised login means stronger protection for your information.

If you use the Help Centre login directly, you’ll be redirected to the Customer Portal first – just log in and you’ll land back where you left off.

This update won’t affect most users — but it does make things simpler if you ever use both platforms.

Need help?

Our friendly Customer Care team is here for you:

– Call us on 01279 810119 (Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm)

– Use live chat or submit a support ticket

– Visit the Residents Hub for more help