Latest FiT update

On the face of it, yesterday’s (25th January) news that the Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) had lost its appeal against the ruling that the changes to the feed in tariff from 12 December 2011 were unlawful is good news. 

DECC had already announced that should they lose, the 12 December rates would apply from 3rd March 2012. There therefore appears to be a window of opportunity for those who are able, to get installations in at the existing high rates over the coming four to five weeks.  For those that can “make hay whilst the sun shines”, the returns could be even better than during the 2011 “solar gold rush”, as many suppliers had already cut installation prices in light of the reduction in tariff. 

Two notes of warning though, from the industry and from DECC themselves:

Firstly, installers are already warning that they are expecting a surge of demand and that installation slots will quickly run out over the next few days.  The recommendation from those I have spoken to is to act quickly to avoid disappointment. 

Secondly, DECC have today (26th January) sought leave to appeal to the Supreme Court and are warning that if successful, the effective date for reduction will revert to 12th December 2011. 

Anyone considering an installation before 3rd of March should therefore be aware of this and ensure that their scheme will still produce positive returns if DECC are successful and the Feed in Tariff is reduced.

If you are considering an installation, contact Mark Neath on 01392 351308 to discuss the quote you have received.