The Purpose of the Solar Power Feed in Tariff
Since the advent of the Feed in Tariff scheme in April of 2010, the programme has undergone some changes, what many refer to as ‘growing pains.’ Government recognised a need for sustainable/renewable energy and also accepted the fact that many households just wouldn’t be able to afford the cost of a solar power installation. As a result they instituted the electricity Feed in Tariff (FIT) scheme that compensates consumers for converting to solar power.
Why the Need for Renewable Energy
Before understanding why the UK government decided to be so generous with electricity Feed in Tariffs, you should understand the growing concern amongst governments worldwide. Contrary to what we believed for so many years, there is not an infinite supply of fossil fuels. As well, the CO2 that we are releasing into the atmosphere is not only breaking down the ozone layer but it is being ‘dissolved’ in the oceans which is why there is such a concern for oceanic life as we know it today. Amidst the ecological impact there are geopolitical fears that at any moment our ‘enemies’ may cease to export oil which is vital in the production of electricity as we are currently manufacturing it. Whilst alternative sources of energy include nuclear, hydro and aero, only solar power is accessible to the average household so the Feed in Tariff was born to help consumers afford a solar installation.
Solar Power Feed in Tariff Basics
In order to reduce our dependence on electricity manufactured with fossil fuels, the UK government legislated to compensate anyone who was willing to generate a portion of their electricity with solar PV panels. The Feed in Tariff provides:
• 41.3p for every kWh generated (existing structures)
• 36.1p for every kWh generated in new build homes
• 3p for every kWh fed back into the grid
• Reduced rates for the portion of electricity purchased from suppliers
These rates are guaranteed for 25 years IF the solar PV system is Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified and only IF the system is installed by an MCS accredited solar installer.
Recommendations for Electricity Feed in Tariffs
In order to maximise the benefits of the electricity Feed in Tariffs it is suggested that you use most of your energy during daylight hours when there is sunlight to continue generating the power as you use it. This means any appliances that you use that draw the most current. It is also recommended that you first see to insulating your home per current building regulations so that you are not losing heat which causes you to utilise more power to keep your home comfortable. By taking less power from the grid you are reducing what you pay for but also maximising what you earn as you are paid for every kWh of electricity you generate.
Since you will need to have an MCS certified solar PV system installed by an MCS registered solar installer, you can be confident in the fact that New Energy Futures is fully accredited with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme and we only install MCS certified solar panels and equipment. For a free no obligation consultation at your home call us today on 0844 774 1047 as the electricity Feed in Tariff rates will not last forever.
