I have no doubt that you will be feeling the impact of the current energy crisis and the recent mini budget. We have seen the heating season starting earlier this year as people consider the most affordable and effective ways to heat their homes. We have seen a big increase in website traffic to the HETAS website and September has already been our busiest month ever for sessions, users and new users. From the discussions we are having with you all, it appears you are all as busy too, which is good news. As well as growth in stove sales, we are also seeing growing interest in boiler stoves, pellet heating and with changes to the biomass market, a growing number of businesses are signing up to the HETAS Approved Biomass Maintenance Scheme. 

As we see an increasing number of people considering stoves and biomass heating for their homes, best installation practice and good burning must remain at the forefront, ensuring that stove users minimise their impact on air quality. This means choosing the best stoves available to match their requirements and budget. The Cleaner Choice scheme allows people to easily identify the various performance characteristics of each stove that is approved on the scheme. 

The impact of the war in Ukraine continues to be felt in the UK. We are keeping a close eye on fuel supplies through Woodsure and their work administering the Ready to Burn and Biomass Suppliers List. There are some short-term changes impacting pellet supply and fuel quality, but we hope this will be short term and we are already seeing alternative supplies coming through. The Woodsure website has some important updates on the changing landscape of the wood fuel sector. 

We continue to push on with promoting our registered businesses. Chimney Fire Safety Week was a real success across the industry, and we hope to see the continued trend of reducing instances of chimney fires. Welsh government has just published their annual data and, like England, the trend is showing a reduced number of reported chimney fires. Next month we are bringing back the #getfiredup campaign as colder weather arrives and people consider lighting their stoves for the first time. Make sure you make use of the assets and engage with us on our social media channels. 

As a final reminder, our technical helpline is on hand for all your technical needs. They are employed by us to support you and the team has a wealth of experience across the industry. You can contact the team directly on 01684 278170, remember to have your business details to hand so the team can verify your registration. 

Thank you for your ongoing support and I wish you all a very busy and positive heating season ahead.