LEAMINGTON SPA: Plumb Center has welcomed the announcement yesterday on the Renewable Heat Incentive by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) but has expressed some disappointment at the delay in the domestic support which could further restrict uptake of microgeneration and renewable technologies.

“We are pleased that the government has given the go ahead for this major incentive for the generation of renewable heat’ said Simon Allan, director of renewables, Plumb Center “However, the picture is not entirely clear as to what this means for the domestic sector as yet.

“In the meantime, we will continue to support our customers and their vital role in the UK’s move to a low carbon economy and will do all we can to ensure they have information on legislation and initiatives such as the RHI and access to the latest and most innovative renewables products and training.”

This is the world’s first financial incentive of its kind and it will help the UK shift away from fossil fuel, reducing carbon emissions and encouraging innovation, jobs and growth in new advanced technologies, according to Energy Secretary Chris Huhne, who launched the scheme.

The £860m Government scheme will support emerging renewable technologies and businesses in the UK, strengthening security of supply by reducing dependence on fossil fuel heating and emissions.

RHI tariff payments will start for homes alongside the Green Deal from 2012 to allow a more whole-house approach to heat production and energy saving.

In the meantime, up to 25 000 installations from July will be supported by a ‘RHI Premium Payment’ to help people cover the purchase price of green heating systems. Those taking up the Premium will then be eligible for a RHI tariff from October next year when the Green Deal begins, as will anyone else who has had eligible equipment installed from July 2009.

For new build homes, an RHI tariff will be considered for the 2012 phase.