Well, the government closed the Low Carbon Building Programme grant funding for solar PV and Wind turbines two months early, and without notice. Not a great day when we found out. They didn't even notify all the accredited installers like us, just closed. But the news over all is very good.
The final rate for Feed in Tariffs was announced and the figures were better than expected. Most domestic solar PV installations will be at 41.3p per KWH. This means even better payback and an even better investment. We have never been so busy, and the interest, as people become aware of the new tariffs is increasing daily. Now people can do the right thing for the environment, but at the same time make a sound financial investment. To be honest, a good percentage of our customers just want to save money, or make some, and that is good. It is a great bye product of that decision that they are doing something very positive for the environment, and to combat climate change. Most though are green minded and have always wanted to do their bit for the environment, but have been restricted financially. Now, whilst solar photovoltaic systems and wind turbines still have relatively high capital costs to start, the financial payback is very high. Both The Guardian, and The Times recently published articles saying how installing microgeneration (wind, solar PV) is now a 'no brainer'. And our customers are saying the same. Increasingly we are being asked how big a solar pv system can we fit on our roof, the bigger the system, the better the payback. Having said that we are still installing smaller systems where the roof or the budget dictates that.
So all of this is good news for the environment, but beware, the number of cowboys out there is increasing rapidly. Many ask us to install for them as they aren't accredited. Many sell systems on incorrect or false promises. The most important thing though, if you don't use an MCS accredited installer, you WILL NOT be eligible for the Feed in Tariff. This is VERY important. To be sure of the quality of your installation, and to make sure you get the tariffs you need to use a qualified MCS installer and MCS approved products. Ask the questions, and ask for client testimonials. Solar PV, wind turbines and most renewable technologies are a big financial investment, and can be poorly installed, or installed in inappropriate places. Do not get ripped off when you are trying to do the right thing. Be sure to check out your installer, question them, and use an MCS accredited installer. Or best still, use Eco Environments! I promise you won't get hard sold, mis-sold or misinformed. You'll get the system you want and the service you deserve. That's the sales pitch, why not put us to the test?! We are award winning!
