Exercising consumer choice: a review of the gas disconnections framework
Call for input
- Open
- Closed
- Publication date
- Closing date
- Industry sector
- Distribution Network
- Supply and Retail Market
We’re seeking information and views on the regulatory framework for gas disconnections.
Who should respond
We are keen to engage with a range of interested parties. We welcome responses from industry stakeholders such as gas transporters and suppliers, those working in the gas sector, as well as consumer representatives.
Background
We consider the ability of consumers to exercise their choice to disconnect from the gas network and electrify their homes and businesses to be integral to the interests of current and future energy consumers, including their interests in the Government meetings its net zero targets.
We are aware of reports from domestic consumers and consumer advocates that the current process for households to exercise their choice to disconnect their gas supply is costly and a potential barrier to transitioning away from gas. We are also aware of reports that the current regulatory framework is complex and difficult to navigate, with a lack of clear guidance available for consumers on how the process works.
We’re reviewing the regulatory arrangements that govern the disconnection process for domestic and small business consumers to make sure it remains fit for purpose as the gas system continues to evolve. We are looking for information and views on:
- the current disconnection framework
- future disconnections frameworks that may operate more effectively, assist in achieving net zero goals and protect consumers
- factors thought to be key in any consideration of potential reform to the current disconnections framework, for example safety, financial or commercial
- the process for carrying out a disconnection and the roles of each party involved in the process
- historic and future volumes of disconnections and the factors that may impact the anticipated number of future disconnections
- costs of disconnections, including labour, regulatory, and material costs and how these costs are recovered
- the factors which affect demand, supply and competition in disconnections and their impact on viability, quality and profits of disconnection services
- the current guidance available for consumers on the disconnection process
Why your views matter
We are conducting this review to examine the framework ahead of an expected increase in heat pump uptake to meet ambitious government targets. We want to hear your views on the current arrangements and any ideas for frameworks that would operate more effectively, assist in achieving net zero and protect consumers. Your responses to this call for input will help us identify areas for improvement and help us shape the regulatory framework for the future.
How to respond
This call for input closes on 7 March 2025. Submit your responses to gas.systems@ofgem.gov.uk