New Government incentive scheme to go green

Midlands energy expert Ron Fox has given a cautious welcome to the Government’s latest incentive scheme to encourage householders to invest in green energy.

Last week the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) revealed its plans for the future of the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive subsidy.

Residents who install ground and air source heat pumps, biomass boilers and solar thermal panels in their homes will now be given a tariff based payment for every unit of renewable heat generated similar to the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) system for solar panels.

The DECC is proposing that the new Domestic RHI payments will be paid over seven years but will cover 20 years’ worth of heat generated.

The department believes that paying the tariff over a shorter period will help investors realise their investment more quickly, although it accepts it will face challenges over ensuring the assumed levels of heat are actually generated.

“It is good that the Government is encouraging householders to use green energy,” said Ron, of Noreus Ltd, “but these are only proposals and we need to wait for the final figures.”

Commenting on the plans which the Government hopes to introduce next summer, Energy and Climate Change Minister Greg Barker said: “We need to revolutionise the way we heat our homes and businesses and move away from expensive fossil fuels, not only to cut our carbon emissions but also to help meet our renewable targets and save money on bills.”

Solar thermal heating systems use a five-foot panel on the roof to obtain free heat from the heat of the sun to warm domestic hot water, whereas solar panels provide electricity with light from the sun. Most conventional boiler and hot water cylinder systems are compatible with the solar heating systems and can be used to make the water hotter, or to provide hot water when solar energy is unavailable.

Air source heat pumps convert solar energy in the air, to free heat, even when temperatures outside are as low as -15 C. They can be used to heat radiators, underfloor heating systems, or warm air convectors and provide hot water in the home.

It works like a refrigerator in reverse in that it extracts heat from the outside air in the same way that a fridge extracts heat from its inside.

Biomass boilers, or wood-fuelled heating systems, burn wood pellets, chips or logs to   provide warmth in a single room or to power central heating and hot water boilers and are cheaper than systems powered by gas or electricity.

Paul Thompson, Head of Policy at The Renewable Energy Association, said: “Renewable heat has been the sleeping giant of UK renewable energy policy. Renewable heat technologies are often very cost-effective, and have a major role to play in reducing our carbon emissions, improving our energy security and revitalising our economy.”

For more details about energy saving ideas call Ron on 01782 756995 or request a call back.