Heat Networks

• You usually pay a set monthly charge for your heating and hot water  
• This charge often includes fuel, maintenance, and running costs  
• Costs are shared across the building rather than based on exact usage  
• You can use the heating without being billed for every unit used  
• Prices are set by the heat network provider, so there is less control over costs 

• Individual heat meters will be installed in each home  
• You will only pay for the heat you use, rather than a shared average  
• This can make charges fairer and may reduce costs if you use less heat  
• Bills will be clearer, showing what is a fixed charge and what is based on your usage  
• You will have more control over your heating and better information to manage your costs  
• Heat suppliers will need to meet minimum standards, with clearer ways to raise concerns and get support 

• From 27 January 2026, heat networks in Wales are regulated by Ofgem. This means there are stronger protections for residents, including clearer pricing and better service 
• Beacon will now be classed as a heat supplier under these rules 
• New build homes will need to meet the new standards by 2027 
• Existing homes will have longer, with changes expected between 2030 and 2035 
• These changes won’t happen straight away. Beacon will work closely with residents throughout, making sure you are informed, supported, and able to share your views 

• More efficient energy use – less energy is wasted, helping make better use of the heat supplied  
• Lower carbon impact – a more environmentally friendly way to heat your home  
• Reliable heating – provides steady heating and hot water without needing your own boiler  
• Managed system – the system is looked after and maintained for you  
• Clearer billing (where meters are in place) – charges can be easier to understand, especially where usage is measured 

• These changes won’t happen straight away, with updates to existing homes expected between 2030 and 2035  
• Some homes already have smart meters installed but not yet in use, and these will be the first we work with  
• We will take time to explain the changes and support residents step by step to keep things clear and fair  
• This work will be carried out by our Compliance Team and Resident Engagement Team, who will be available to help and answer any questions along the way 

If your home is one of the first we’ll be working on, please don’t worry — we’ll make sure to give you plenty of notice in advance. 

• Smart meters can make it easier to understand and manage your heating 
• You can see how much heat you’re using, helping to avoid surprises 
• Your bills are based on what you use, rather than estimates 
• You have more control over your heating 
• It can help you use less energy by making small changes 
• Problems can be spotted sooner, so they can be fixed more quickly