In spite of the recent DECC announcement to cut the Feed-in-Tariff to 21p/pkWh, PV remains a very sound investment. The new tariff, coupled with plummeting PV prices, will offer at least a 5% tax-free and index linked return on your investment.
R-ECO will be offering re-quotes on systems that are not installed before the 12th December cut off date, which will show a considerable reduction in the initial cost of PV. Those who install their systems before 1st April 2011 will also be eligible for the FiT without having to produce an Energy Efficiency Certificate.
On 13th May 2011, R-ECO cracked open the champagne to celebrate the completion of its first community project. R-ECO matched Cornwall Council's funding to install a 6kWp solar PV system on the roof of the The Sterts Theatre, Liskeard. The theatre is now well on its way to becoming carbon neutral. For more information see the Community PV page.
As in all trades, the solar industry is plagued by "cowboys", who give false information to clients, install PV on inappropriate roofs and overcharge members of the public. We were therefore delighted to hear BBC Radio 4's "You and Yours" informing members of the public as to what to look out for when looking to install a PV system.
They pointed out the difficulties with certain types of roof and went on to mention the importance of using an MCS accredited installer in order to obtain the Feed in Tariff, FiT.