The Government’s final attempt to cut the FiT was defeated last Friday, 23rd March (2012) when the Supreme Court refused to allow their appeal. This related to a problem created by the government when they attempted to change the date by which solar installations were able to receive the full 43.3p kW subsidy. The government wanted to bring the date forward to 12th December 2011 as being the cut-off date for receiving the full FiT payment. They planned to reduce the payment to 21p from that date, rather than the previously agreed date of 3rd March 2012.
This resulted in a fiasco which has caused a major hiatus for many solar installation companies. Smaller firms were badly affected when the government first announced the change in dates. For many the waiting game proved to be too difficult, as customers who were anticipating the full FiT payment of 43.3p decided not to proceed when they were told that the subsidy would be reduced.
The Way Ahead
Greg Barker, the Energy and Climate Change minister has now stated that much of the “red tape was being removed from those who wanted to become accredited installers, including the requirements to have a surety bond in place prior to being authorised; to hold warranties for the 25 year of the plan when they were longer than standard industry warranties, e.g. for boilers; and the requirement that installers pay for an Independent Conciliation Service”.
Mr Barker also tried to allay concerns that implementation of the Green Deal would be delayed, stating that a “managed” roll-out would proceed. In other words the minister isn’t anticipating that the whole scheme will be ready on the due date. He continued by stating that the government will respond to the Green Deal consultation in April and that further legislation will be in place by the summer recess.
There will also be a new Green Deal Ombudsman appointed who will be able to handle complaints.
Visits to Properties with Green Technology Installed
During this last weekend business and residential customers who had already installed green equipment or upgrades, allowed visitors into their properties so that it was possible to see various installations. These included, at one end simple draught proofing and insulation, to other premises with woodchip fired boilers or solar water heating systems.
The weekend was a great success as people who had seen solar panels on neighbours’ roofs were able to get information as to the benefits from those customers who actually knew the advantages. Although the majority of people were aware of the FiT there appeared to be only limited knowledge regarding the Renewable Energy Incentive and the Green Deal which showed the need for further publicity.
The Green Deal Must be Inclusive
Whilst opening up premises with green technologies already installed is a great way forward there is still a sector of the public who must be included and advised about their best options. The more vulnerable customers who don’t look to change suppliers and aren’t aware of the free insulation and other services available to them need to have additional support.