AMO Gemserv

• Improved navigation and usability – making it easier to locate code documents, consultations, release information, forms, and guidance.
• Enhanced stakeholder experience – providing a modern interface that supports more efficient engagement with REC processes and information.
• Greater accessibility of industry information – helping parties access updates, bulletins, governance materials, and programme information more effectively. 
• Support for future market developments – creating a scalable platform capable of supporting evolving REC services and regulatory initiatives.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has published the successful projects for the Warm Homes Skills Programme, a key initiative to strengthen workforce capability across the UK’s retrofit and energy efficiency sector and support the delivery of lower energy bills.

Running until July 2026, the programme will deliver up to 9,000 subsidised training opportunities for installers and retrofit professionals. It aims to address critical skills shortages that have limited the pace and quality of retrofit delivery, while creating clearer pathways into the sector for new entrants and opportunities for upskilling existing professionals.

In Phase 1, up to £8 million has been awarded to a range of training providers across England through a competitive process. These organisations include further education colleges, private training providers and industry-led bodies, delivering accredited courses aligned to national standards via a mix of classroom-based and online learning.

The funded training focuses on four core areas that reflect key gaps within the retrofit supply chain. These include retrofit assessment and coordination to support compliance with industry standards; fabric insulation and solar panel installation to improve building performance; entry-level awareness courses to encourage new entrants into the sector; and specialist training for professionals working on non-domestic buildings.

Overall, the programme represents a targeted investment in developing a skilled and competent workforce capable of delivering high-quality retrofit at scale. By increasing supply chain capacity and improving delivery standards, it is expected to support the wider rollout of energy efficiency measures, contributing to reduced energy consumption, lower household energy bills, and progress towards the UK’s net zero ambitions.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has introduced the Warm Home Discount (Scotland) Regulations 2026, which came into force on 1 May 2026 and will run until 31 March 2031. ome Discount Scheme in Scotland, a key government policy aimed at reducing fuel poverty by requiring licensed energy suppliers to provide financial support to vulnerable households. 

Under the scheme, larger energy suppliers (those with more than 1,000 domestic customers) are mandated to participate, while smaller suppliers may opt in voluntarily. 

Participating suppliers must deliver annual support to eligible households, including a £150 rebate applied directly to energy bills for qualifying domestic electricity and gas customers. 

The scheme maintains a dual approach to eligibility through:

• A core group, typically identified via data matching for automatic rebates; and
• A broader group, where eligible low‑income households may apply via their supplier. 

Overall, the continuation of the scheme provides long-term certainty for suppliers and consumers, while reinforcing government efforts to support households most at risk of fuel poverty in Scotland through targeted bill reductions. 

20 November 2025 – Ofgem has opened a statutory consultation under the Energy Act 2023 to establish a harmonised prioritisation process for modifications across all energy industry codes. This initiative marks a significant step in the ongoing energy code reform programme, aimed at improving governance and aligning code changes with strategic policy objectives.

The consultation seeks stakeholder feedback on proposals to standardise how code modifications are prioritised, ensuring consistency and transparency across the sector. Ofgem’s approach is designed to support the introduction of the Strategic Direction Statement (SDS) and facilitate the transition to reformed governance arrangements.

Key Elements of the Proposal

The consultation focuses on four core policy areas:

• Prioritisation Process – A unified framework for ranking code modifications.
• Criteria and Categories – Clear definitions for assessing urgency and impact.
• Governance – Oversight mechanisms to ensure fair and efficient decision-making.
• Implementation – Transitional arrangements using powers granted under the Energy Act 2023.

Accompanying the consultation are detailed guidance documents and proposed code text changes (Annexes B–L), along with a notice outlining the legal basis for these reforms.

Why It Matters

Industry codes govern critical aspects of the UK energy system, from market operations to infrastructure development. With increasing complexity and a growing number of modification proposals, a harmonised prioritisation process is seen as essential to manage resources effectively and deliver strategic outcomes, including the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Who Should Respond

Ofgem is inviting responses from:

• Code administrators and parties
• Central system delivery bodies
• Consumer groups
• Other stakeholders and the public

Responses must be submitted by 12 January 2026 via email to industrycodes@ofgem.gov.uk.

The consultation covers all designated codes and qualifying documents, including:

• Balancing and Settlement Code (BSC)
• Connection and Use of System Code (CUSC)
• Grid Code
• Distribution Code & DCUSA
• Retail Energy Code (REC)
• Smart Energy Code (SEC)
• Uniform Network Code (UNC)
• System Operator Transmission Owner Code (STC)
• Security and Quality of Supply Standard (SQSS). [ofgem.gov.uk]

Next Steps

Following the consultation, Ofgem will review feedback and publish a decision on implementation. Non-confidential responses will be made publicly available to ensure transparency.

For full details and access to consultation documents, visit Ofgem’s official page. [ofgem.gov.uk]