The framework gives local authorities and housing associations access to three suppliers capable of providing a range of services - Switch2 Energy, Pinnacle Power and Vital Energi.

Dr Tim Rotheray, director at the Association for Decentralised Energy, said: “This framework is another wonderful example of industry proactively implementing measures that will encourage the growth of the heat network market and ensure customer protection. The framework aligns with the standards and guidance already developed by industry to deliver the same objectives and it will be valuable to both Fife and potentially other councils across the UK.

“It is action like this which will support government in achieving its target of meeting around 20% of our heating through heat networks by 2050 and Fife council is to be applauded for its introduction.”

Lee Parry, category manager with Fife Council, added: “Using our experience of communal and district heating schemes, we’ve created the heat metering and billing multi-supplier framework. The goal of the framework is to support organisations, who supply heat through communal and district heating schemes, to comply with the relevant regulations. We look forward to working with suppliers and local authorities.”

This agreement delivers a set of standard approaches, and relieves the pressure from social landlords and local authorities to meet the regulations to individually bill and meter each tenant.

The scope of the framework is aligned to guidance from the Department of Business, Energy, Innovation and Skills and the Heat Trust. It also allows for project to be aligned with the membership expectations of the Heat Trust.