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Feed-in-Tariff FAQ's
Are you confused about the changes to the feed in tariff? Do you need some clarity before making a decision about whether to go ahead with your solar PV installation?
We have composed a list of FAQ’s following published documents from the DECC containing all the information you will need.
What is the tariff for installation post March 3rd?
For installations after March 3rd 2012, the tariff will be 45.4p until April 1st when it will drop to 21p/kWh. However, if the Government win their appeal with the Supreme Court, the rate of 45.4p/kWh could drop to 21p/kWh for any installation post December 12th 2011.
Will tariffs increase with inflation in April 2012?
Any installation before March 3rd will see an increase in line with inflation. Installations post March 3rd will not, as this has already been taken into account.
I think I would like to wait until more information about the feed-in-tariff is released before installing my system, what will this mean for me?
The Government is proposing to reduce the tariff once again in July 2012. This means that if you have your installation between April and July 2012, you will be eligible for the 21p/kWh. It has not yet been announced what the tariff will be for July 2012 onward. The Government have also said that evidence shows that the cost of solar PV modules are continuing to fall which will still make investing in solar PV at lower tariffs a feasible option.
Will I need to provide a meter reading for FIT payments?
Meter readings will be required by FIT licensee’s from every PV system on 31st March/1st April 2012 to ensure they receive the correct tariff rate going forward. If this meter reading is not receive, it will be deemed and may not be accurate.
What is the EPC level D and why do I need it?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives information about your properties energy use and carbon emissions. It works on a rating systems from A, being the highest, to G, being the lowest. In order to be eligible for the feed-in-tariff, your property needs to be level D to qualify for the feed-in-tariff after April 1st. To find out more about EPC’s, click here.
Can I apply for the feed-in-tariff without and EPC?
The application for feed-in-tariff payments must include an EPC certificate of level D or higher. If the certificate is not present, or is lower than level D, then you will receive a lower tariff.
Can my solar PV installer provide me with an EPC assessment?
Some installers may be able to provide you with an EPC. The government specifies that the installer must be qualified and accredited under the terms of the Energy Performance of Building Regulations 2007. Freesource Energy’s technical surveyors are trained and qualified; therefore we will be able to provide you with your EPC assessment. For more information, call us on 0800 1313 161 or visit our EPC page.
What if my property does not meet level D requirements?
Half of residential properties and 65% of no domestic properties already meet the criteria for level D. Your EPC assessment will provide recommended improvements in order to increase your EPC level. This could include topping up loft insulation or installing double glazing.
I am installing PV on a commercial building; do I still need an EPC certificate?
Yes, all properties installing PV will need an EPC certificate.
Can I make improvements to my home and then resubmit my EPC to the FIT licensee?
No, all improvements to increase the EPC to level D will need to be completed before applying for the feed-in-tariff. Once your EPC has been sent, it cannot be resubmitted.
Does my PV installation count towards my EPC assessment?
Yes, solar PV installations will contribute to your homes EPC rating, however you should not rely on this solely. If your solar PV does not bring the property up to a level D, you will need to make other improvements and carry out another EPC assessment in order to receive the feed-in-tariff.
What is the multi-install tariff?
The multi-install tariff applies to people who have over 25 properties with PV installations. These people will receive a lower tariff rate.
Will this lower tariff count for my current installations?
No. The multi installation tariff will only apply to properties installed after April 1st 2012.
Do my current installations count towards my quota?
Yes any installations you currently own will count towards the quota.
