Following the announcement that support for low carbon technologies will be increased to £7.6 billion in 2020, the Solar Trade Association (STA) has warned government that the non-domestic solar industry is still unsure over the level of support solar will receive under the RO come April 2013.
Paul Barwell, CEO of the STA, hailed the “strong signal” provided by the level of financial support announced today but warned: “We are still waiting to see if non-domestic solar will receive the support it requires to continue to reduce costs. By investing decisively today, our industry can deliver consumers real choice and freedom from rising energy bills before the end of the decade.”
Earlier this week, the STA raised concerns that the RO consultation is only focused on large 5MW+ schemes and that mid-sized roof-mounted solar risks falling through the policy framework. Speaking to Solar Power Portal, the association’s solar specialist, Ray Noble, suggested that DECC should introduce a new, higher RO band for roof-mounted projects.
Paul Barwell added: “Solar power can readily meet a third of UK electricity supply and it can put power into the hands of millions, not the few. This is a heavy-lifter technology. But solar power now requires close and careful attention in the policy framework to ensure it can access the funds made available today.”
The association is also anticipating the inclusion of solar technology in the revised renewables roadmap after its exclusion last year. The association hopes that the revised document will recognise the major role solar can play in the energy mix.
DECC’s decision on the level of RO support for solar and the revised renewables roadmap are expected to be published shortly.
