Chris Huhne today revealed more evidence of the economic benefits of renewable energy as he reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to meeting EU renewable energy targets. This came as the UK published an update on progress to source 15% of all energy from renewable sources by 2020.

Latest research from DECC shows that so far this financial year, companies have announced plans for almost £2.5billion worth of investment in renewable energy projects in the UK, with the potential to create almost 12,000 jobs across the country.

A separate report to the European Commission on renewable energy progress that showed that the UK:

• Achieved a 27% increase in renewable energy consumption from 42.6TWh in 2008 to 54TWh in 2010 - representing 3.3% of total energy consumed.
• Increased wind generation by 46% from 7TWh in 2008 to 10.2TWh in 2010, and in 2010 achieved 5GW of offshore and onshore wind capacity; and
• Saw a threefold increase in the use of biofuels in transport from 1% of total road transport fuel supply in 2007/8 to 3.33% in 2010.

Chris Huhne, Energy Secretary, said:

“Renewable energy is not just helping us increase our energy security and reduce our emissions. It is supporting jobs and growth across the country, and giving traditional industrial heartlands the opportunity to thrive again.

“Our renewable target is less demanding than other EU member states, but the effect is bringing real jobs and investment.

“I do not want the UK to be left behind by turning our back on the green economy. The agreement to negotiate a global deal secured at Durban has reinforced major nations’ commitment to cutting carbon. We cannot afford to stand alone while the world wises up.”

Kindly taken from DECC

In a dramatic judgement yesterday at the High Court, Mr Justice Mitting found Government Ministers had acted unlawfully in cutting feed-in tariffs from the 12th December.  After a two day hearing closely examining the law, he decided that Ministers were not following the correct legal process, and were wrong to reduce tariff rates without first laying regulations before Parliament.

Mr Justice Mittings finding was so emphatic that he went on to refuse the Government the right to appeal, saying they stood little chance of overturning it.  This does not stop the Government asking the Appeal Court to hear their case – but in an unusual move Mr Justice Mitting even reduced the time available for them to make this request, saying they must file legal arguments with the Appeal Court by 4th January.

We can sell you complete commercial Solar PV systems for your commercial Installation. We can save you thousands by buying direct from us then getting an MCS Installer to install the system so you are able to get the feed in tariff.

Commercial Solar PV Installations perfect for

• Solar PV Installations for Farms and farmers
• Land owners
• Caravan parks
• Eco Developments
• Housing Association developments

Feed-in Tariffs (FITs) became available in Great Britain on 1st April 2010. And isn’t available in Northern Ireland - although this is under review.

Under this scheme energy suppliers have to (compulsory for big six suppliers) make regular payments to householders and communities who generate their own electricity from renewable or low carbon sources such as solar electricity panels(PV) or wind turbines.

Kindly taken from Energy Saving Trust