The Renewable Heat Incentive scheme is run by the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) and Phase 1 for commercial installations was introduced in November 2011. Phase 2 for domestic installations is due to launch in the Autumn of 2012. They will pay you a fixed amount for every kilowatt hour of heat you produce. With solar thermal, the rate of return is calculated at around 6% which is a tangible bonus in addition to the emotional benefits of lying in the bath knowing the water was heated by the sun.
Until March of 2012, you can claim a £300 Renewable Heat Premium Payment from the Energy Savings Trust towards the cost of installing a solar thermal system. You can find out more at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
The good news is that any installation done now with accredited products and by an accredited supplier should qualify for the RHI when it launches. So you can make the most of the sunshine and still take advantage of the scheme next year.
