To keep receiving your RHI (Renewable Heat Incentive) payments and remain compliant with Ofgem’s rules, there are some key responsibilities you need to stay on top of. This guide gives you a practical overview of your legal requirements.
Your Ongoing Responsibilities
1. Submit Regular Meter Readings
Keep track of your energy use by submitting meter readings either every month or quarter – whichever applies to your system. You’ll do this through the RHI Register. Timely and accurate submissions are essential because they’re used to calculate your payments. Late or incorrect submissions could lead to reduced payments or even penalties.
2. Fuel Tracking (Biomass Only)
If you’re using biomass fuels, you need to only use compliant and eligible fuels and keep detailed records:
- Logging the fuel type, quantity, source and moisture content
- Receipts showing the fuel came from a registered supplier (like BSL or SFR)
- GHG emissions data, if required
If your fuel is ever contaminated, make sure you log the extent of contamination and check that your boiler can legally burn it.
3. Report Any Changes
If any changes are made to your system e.g. how you use the heat, adding or removing plant, extending the system etc. you must let Ofgem knowwithin 28 days. This includes upgrades, changes of meters, or business ownership. Ignoring this can lead to loss of payments or removal from thescheme.
4. Maintain Your Kit
Regular servicing of your equipment and meters is essential:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Keep a written record of all maintenance activity
- Service biomass boilers annually with a HETASApproved Biomass Maintenance Scheme (HABMS) contractor
This keeps everything running efficiently and within the rules.
5. Use Heat for Approved Purposes
You can only claim RHI payments for heat used in specific ways:
- Heating or hot water inside a building
- Commercial drying or cleaning (including outdoors)
- Industrial processes within buildings
Activities outside these categories may not qualify – check the latest guidance for updates.
6. Submit an Annual Declaration
Once a year, you need to officially confirm:
- Your system still meets the eligibility criteria
- You’re meeting all your responsibilities under the scheme
This declaration must be signed by you (or an authorised representative if you're part of an organisation). You are responsible for any incorrector missing information.
Additional rules for certain systems
If you’re running a large biomass system (1MW+), or using mixed fuels, there are a few more things to consider, you may need to:
- Submit quarterly fuel sustainability reports
- Complete a Fuel Measurement and Sampling (FMS) questionnaire
- Submit monthly meter readings
- Maintain evidence of fuel deliveries and sustainability
- Notify Ofgem of any fuel changes or system modifications
If you have a heat pump you may also need to ensure that the right electricity metering is in place.
Site audits and inspections
Ofgem might inspect your installation – at any time. Audits can include:
- Equipment checks
- Meter reading verification
- Eligibility reviews
To be ready, make sure your system and records are always up to date.
Enforcement and penalties
Ofgem employs various methods to check if heat meters have passed their calibration period or if participants are compliant with the RenewableHeat Incentive requirements. These measures help maintain the integrity of the scheme and ensure that participants receive incentives for accurate and properlymaintained renewable heat generation. If you don’t meet your obligations, actions can include:
- Temporary or permanent loss of payments
- Recovery of overpaid funds
- Full removal from the scheme
Avoid issues by sticking to the requirements and asking for help when needed.
