Northern Ireland to increase solar subsidies

• 13 years ago (2011-10-29)
• Junior Isles

Europe 1089 Renewables 776

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The Northern Ireland Executive has announced a public consultation on proposed changes to the Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation (NIRO).

The NIRO encourages suppliers to source a specific proportion of their electricity from environmentally-friendly, renewable sources in order to help reach environmental emissions targets.

The consultation will seek the public’s views on a number of proposals to amend the levels of Renewables Obligation Certificates (ROCs) to new generating stations from April 1, 2013.

“The Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation has proved very successful in increasing the amount of electricity generated from renewable sources. The UK-wide review of banding levels is important as we need to take account of any changes to technology costs, while also delivering value for money for consumers,” said NI Energy Minister Arlene Foster.

In addition to a number of UK-wide banding changes, the Northern Irish consultation proposes a small increase in ROC levels for microgeneration solar photovoltaic, retention of the ROC for landfill gas and recommends extending the lifetime of the NIRO from 2033 to 2037

“Consistency across all three UK Renewables Obligations is important., however, where necessary, I reserve the right to exercise judgement in setting ROC levels that meet the requirements of the Northern Ireland market,” the energy minister commented.

The consultation period will be open until January 19, 2012, following which DETI will consider comments received and begin development and implementation of a final policy position.

Simple Power founder and CEO Paul Carson responded to the consultation by saying: “We are pleased to see the Northern Ireland Government is staying firm in its commitment to provide financial support for renewable energy. Extension of the Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation from 2033 to 2037 would encourage further investment and growth in the local renewable sector.”

Simple Power has plans to develop approximately 200 wind turbines by 2015. The 50 MW of wind energy generated would equal an approximate 30 per cent increase on current renewable energy generation in Northern Ireland.