The reports of the death of solar energy following the Government’s decision to review feed in tariffs (FITs) are exaggerated advises Brian Dinnis of leading agents Acorn Rural Property Consultants.

Although the Government has signalled that it is concerned about the bulk of funding going to the largest projects, the outlook for smaller farm scale projects remains positive both for solar energy schemes and for other renewable technologies.

The review of feed in tariffs that energy secretary Chris Huhne announced in February, which will be completed by the end of this year, will also look at the uptake rates for farm based anaerobic digestion (AD) plants which are falling short of expectations. The Government has already flagged up that there is a possibility that feed in tariff rates for on farm AD plants will be increased. It also looks likely that rates of grant will be capped to ensure that funding continues to be available for smaller schemes up to 50kW per annum which would target funding at householders, smaller businesses and community projects which the Government wants to encourage to produce their own green electricity.

“Changing the financial structure of feed in tariffs to encourage smaller scale schemes will be good news for our farming clients regardless of whether they are considering roof mounted PVA panels, wind turbines, AD plants or other technologies. Greater certainty will also make it easier to obtain bank funding for the capital costs involved,” added Dinnis.

Anyone wishing to discuss a renewable energy project or receive free advice under the Resource Efficiency for Farmers scheme should phone 01278 772655.