We are an independent technical and commercial consultancy, specialising in energy systems and building energy efficiency. With over 25 years of experience both in the UK and overseas, we can offer a wealth of practical advice. Whether you are at the concept stage, assessing options or delivering new projects, we have helpful and friendly advice. Our extensive operational experience also means that we can help to optimise existing projects, prepare for refurbishments and fix operational issues.
I have been frustrated in the past that regulation of heat was shunned by some in the industry. The word ‘Regulation’ conjures thoughts of red tape and interference, but it brings benefits to business as well. The cost of setting up consumer contracts, project agreements and price formulae are all done on a case by case basis at the moment. Many if not most clients (those, like Local Authorities who sponsor new networks) have to learn the commercial rules from scratch in this newly emerging industry. The legal cost for clients and contractors can often kill a potential project. A standardised and appropriately regulated industry, with freely available contract templates which have been tested and proven, makes perfect sense. Furthermore, network developers can access cheaper capital in a regulated market, because it is considered less risky by lenders. So this first step towards hopefully robust regulation should be embraced by the industry and all consumers of network heat in the UK. In the future, that could be any of us.
