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<p>The Government is committed to ensuring that the rights of consumers are protected
before, during and after the hydrogen heating trials. Nobody in the trial areas will
pay more for their heating than they would if they were still connected to natural
gas, including those that choose an electric alternative. They will also not be expected
to pay for the installation or maintenance of hydrogen-capable appliances, or an alternative
heating solution. The Government is working with the regulator Ofgem and the gas
networks to deliver these consumer protections through consumer contracts and funding
agreements. Consumers will be able to opt-out of the neighbourhood trial at any point
and switch back to using natural gas free of charge. Consumer protection for the village
trial will be further enhanced through legislation, including measures in the Energy
Bill, and subsequent regulations.</p><p> </p><p>The neighbourhood trial is funded
by SGN, with contributions from other gas networks, Ofgem and the Scottish Government. The
village trial will be funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ofgem
and the gas networks. The village trial location and level of public funding will
be decided later this year, following the submission of funding applications in March.</p>
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