The government is preparing to review its whole approach to funding in support of renewable heat across both non-domestic and domestic property.
Non-domestic Incentives
The Government is preparing to consult in July 2012 on possible changes to the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme (RSI) for non domestic property. The changes are likely to affect payments, in terms of payment reviews, air quality and the potential of biomass cropping. It is envisaged that these changes will be introduced from April 2013 therefore any applications made before this date will not be affected by any changes implemented following the consultation. It is also a possibility that this scheme could be extended to other technologies in the future.
As limited funding is available a ‘cap’ on the non domestic RHI scheme will also be implemented in the form of suspending the scheme if estimated spending exceeds the budget. It is therefore important to apply for this non domestic scheme early to secure funding.
Domestic Property Incentives
A similar scheme is the ‘RHI Scheme for Domestic Property’ which was intended to run alongside ‘The Green Deal’ in October 2011, however it has been announced that this has been delayed until Summer 2013 with a new consultation planned in September 2012. It is believed that this consultation will focus on the tariff rates therefore any rates previously set out should be ignored.Â
The ‘Renewable Heat Premium Payments’ however, are still available due to a second phase of the scheme being launched. This is due to run from 1st May 2012 to 31st March 2013. This scheme is open to any householders who wish to install renewable heat technologies in their properties. It awards vouchers, the value of which is based on the technology being installed, so that part of the cost can be reclaimed.
Value of Vouchers (dependant on the type of technology):
- Solar thermal water heater                                        £300
- Air to water source heat pump                                  £850
- Ground source or water source heat pump             £1250
- Biomass boiler                                                           £950
We urge any domestic householders considering installing these technologies to contact either Paul Madeley or Angela Roberts on 01952 727007 to discuss applying for these vouchers while the budgets are available and the scheme is running.
