Will my heat network tariff be affected by the energy crisis?

We have all seen the news about increasing energy bills and heat networks are not immune from the energy crisis, which might affect your costs for heat and hot water.

Your utility supplier will negotiate contracts with primary utility suppliers, such as a gas supplier, for the whole heat network. This often means your heat network and your heat tariff will benefit from commercial utility rates and can include “fixed” periods. These benefits will normally be passed to you in your heat tariff, but cost increases may also be passed onto you.

It is also important to know that commercial supplies do not benefit from energy price caps, as set by Ofgem. There is a demand for heat networks to receive this protection, including from the Heat Trust, an independent consumer champion.

A well designed, operated, and maintained heat network will help ensure your heat network operates as cost effectively as possible. It can also be the case that renewable systems may generate, or store, “heat” on your heat network, which can also help offset some of the increases in wholesale energy costs.

This ultimately means that heat network tariffs could increase. It really depends on the system installed and what agreements your utility supplier has in place. It is important you understand who sets your tariff and how.

Your tariffs are set by your utility provider and mySycous are appointed by your utility supplier to provide a meter management and charging solution for your utilities. Your utility supplier is likely to be the building owner, a managing agent, or your housing provider.

If you’re unsure who your housing provider is, you can use the ‘chat’ button and we will let you know!

If you’re unsure how your heat tariff is calculated, you should check your heat supply agreement. This is the contract you have with your utility supplier. This often explains how they calculate your tariff, how frequently it is reviewed, the notice period for tariff reviews and much more.

So, what can be done to limit the energy price rises?

Even as a heat network customer, you may receive a £150 rebate on your council tax, if you are in band A-D, as part of the governments Energy Bills Rebate.

You can also help control your costs but should ensure you can remain comfortable and safe in your home. This includes knowing how to control your heating, such as using your thermostat, programmer and other controls. You should ensure your heating system works as efficiently as possible, including having your HIU maintained by experts, such as HIUService.co.uk, if you are responsible for its maintenance.

There is also advice from organisation such as the Energy Saving Trust and, if your utility provider is also your housing provider, they may also offer some more direct support.

If you are struggling with your payments, you can get help and support. Please get in touch and we will advise on how we can help, as well as helping you find support from other organisations, such as the National Debtline.

We’re here to help you and will work with you and your utility provider to help ensure your heat tariff offers the best value. If you have any questions, please Get in Touch!