Letters: Consumer protection must be at the heart of heat network regulation and any expansion

Unlike many other energy customers, those connected to a heat network cannot easily switch supplier if prices rise or service falls below an acceptable standard. That makes strong regulation, transparency and independent oversight absolutely vital.

I welcome the Department for the Economy’s proposals to introduce a Northern Ireland-specific regulatory framework, including proposals for a role for the Utility Regulator, an authorisation regime for heat network operators and continued protections around metering and billing.

However, these measures must be seen as the beginning rather than the end of consumer protection.

The final framework must include strong protections for vulnerable consumers, including older people, people with disabilities and families already struggling with the cost of heating their homes.

The transition to lower-carbon heating should support efforts to tackle fuel poverty, not create new financial pressures.

Getting this framework right now is critical. If consumers are expected to place their trust in heat networks, they must know they are protected, treated fairly and receiving value for money.

That should be the foundation on which any future expansion of heat networks is built.

Andy Allen MBE, East Belfast Ulster Unionist MLA and communities spokesperson