The new feed-in tariff rates were announced on 31st of October 2011 by Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) much to the shock of many in and out of the renewables industry. A deadline of 12th December 2011 for the higher tariff as the cut off has been mentioned.

What does this deadline mean though?

Many people would have noticed that the deadline date is actually a couple of weeks earlier than the so-called consultation period end date. This means that although DECC will consult on the proposed tariffs and date when they would be implemented, it is unlikely that any changes will be made to the December deadline.

This has led to a rush from customers to try and push through their installations before the deadline date in order to receive the higher tariff. But this doesn't mean that if your system is installed by the 12th December that you are automatcially guaranteed the higher rate... no, DECC have said that your system must be commissioned and the FiT licensee or Ofgem must have received the application for the FiT. In the case of installations 50kW or less, the application must be accompanied by a valid MCS certificate of installation. For more details visit:  http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/meeting_energy/renewable_ener/feedin_tariff/feedin_tariff.aspx