Feed-in Tariffs impact solar PV more than other technologies

The REA‘s analysis of Ofgem‘s figures show 6,930 solar PV panels serving the domestic sector have been installed since the introduction of the FiT.

The Renewable Energy Association (REA) has published its analysis of figures obtained from energy regulator Ofgem, which show that 6,930 solar PV panels serving the domestic sector have been installed since the Feed-in Tariff (FiT) was introduced in April this year.


The figures, as interpreted by the REA, also reveal that 1,376 domestic PV installations have been transferred from the Renewables Obligation (RO), with a further 14 schemes transferred across the commercial, industrial and community sectors.

Based on this analysis, the REA claims the tariffs have had more of an impact on solar PV than other technologies.

Chief executive of the REA, Gaynor Hartnell, said: "In the first five months of the scheme, the tariffs have had more of an impact on solar PV than other technologies, but that's hardly surprising.
"Solar panels are the most straightforward renewable power generation technology for the average householder. All you need is some roof space with right aspect. It is usually rapid to install and planning permission is rarely required as it is permitted development."

She added that, despite this, it was important to keep the growth in perspective, with the UK having only installed 2% of the PV installed in Belgium last year, meaning "we have a lot of catching up to do".
The figures, correct yesterday (September 6), provide further detail on those published by Ofgem last week, which showed how many solar photovoltaic devices were fitted in August under the Feed-in Tariff.

Projects installed under the Renewables Obligation, prior to 15th July 2009 Projects installed under the Renewables Obligation, after 15th July 2009New houses with PV panels under 4kW, built after 1st April 2010 Existing homes (ie retrofitted with PV panels) under 4kW, built after 1st April 2010Projects in range 100kW to 5MW, built after 1st April 2010Projects in range 10kW to 100kW, built after 1st April 2010Projects in range 4-10kW, built after 1st April 2010

Source: REA's analysis of Ofgem's figures
On top of looking in greater detail at the number of installations which have migrated from the RO - with more set to transfer before the October 1 cut-off date - the REA has also surveyed its members to find that the tariffs have resulted in a 62% increase in employment levels to date, with an overall increase of 125% likely by the end of the first tariff year.

The survey was based on the results of 45 companies, ranging from sole traders to large multinationals. The REA said the majority of the responses were from installers, with five new companies having been set up as a result of the FiTs.

The REA released its analysis on the day that climate change minister, Greg Barker, endorsed FiTs for solar power during a visit to Birchwood High School in Bishop's Stortford, Hertfordshire - the first school to benefit from a new scheme offered by renewable technology enabler, Our Generation.
Our Generation has secured private sector funding as a result of the government's FiT, which will be used to enable "hundreds of schools" throughout Britain to have solar electricity systems installed free of charge.
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