Tuesday 13 July 2010

Government launches microgeneration consultation

Climate Change Minister Greg Barker yesterday launched the first stage of the government's plans to create a mass market UK microgeneration industry.

The government wants to build on the work already done via feed-in-tariffs to get homes, schools and businesses producing their own green electricity.

The Green Energy (Definition and Promotion) Act 2009 committed the government to consult on a new Microgeneration Strategy with the express purpose of promoting microgeneration technologies in England only.

The Microgeneration Strategy will focus on electricity generation technologies of less than 50 kW in size, and heat generating technologies of less than 300 kW in size. These include air, ground and water source heat pumps; solar photovoltaics; solar thermal water heating; biomass boilers; micro combined heat and power; micro wind turbines; fuel cells; micro hydro schemes; and passive flue gas recovery devices.

The results of the strategy consultation will be published early next year.

Barker said: " The consultation on the Microgeneration Strategy wants to ensure consumers have confidence that equipment and installation is reliable and adheres to the highest standards; examine how to improve products through more trialling of technologies new to the UK; develop the microgeneration supply chain to ensure it is properly equipped with the right people to meet the expected rise in demand, as well as creating and sustaining jobs in the UK; and provide more accessible advice and information about microgeneration to homeowners, communities and small businesses.

Chief executive of the Micropower Council Dave Sowden said: "We're delighted the government is embarking on the development of a new vision for a true mass market UK microgeneration industry and bring sustainable energy self-production in reach of every citizen.

"Microgeneration is already a notable British manufacturing, servicing and export success story. It brings a unique personal touch for citizens to "do their bit" in tackling the country's energy efficiency and sustainability needs, as well as helping supply security, fuel poverty relief and creating thousands of green jobs in recent years. We look forward to working closely with the Government on a new policy framework to allow every citizen, business, school, hospital, community and other organisations to grow their own energy."

Anyone who wants to contribute to the consultation should email microgenconsult@decc.gsi.gov.uk. The consultation will close on December 22.