In April 2014, the government launched the domestic RHI scheme providing a financial incentive for consumers using renewable heating systems. Based on experience and feedback, DECC has made a number of amendments to the regulations. The amendments are summarised below, but the full details can be found at www.microgenerationcertification.org
- High temperature heat pumps, that can operate at temperatures as high as 80c˚, are now eligible.
- Some cooker stoves are now eligible. The RHI defines ‘cooker stoves’ as pellet biomass stoves with a back boiler that are predominantly designed for space and hot water heating, but can also be used for cooking. If you have a cooker stove that was installed before the amending regulations come into force, you will have until July 31 2015 or 12 months after the date your heating system was fully installed and tested (whichever is later), to apply.
- The regulations have been updated to refer to the new MCS standards for heat pumps (MIS 3005) and solar thermal (MIS 3001), and an updated Heat Emitter Guide (MCS 021).
- Clarification to make it clear that heating systems that provide heat to properties with more than one building can be eligible for the domestic RHI.
- Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) are now able to apply for the domestic RHI without a GDA.
Installers must still ensure they are complying with all other installation and product eligibility requirements. To find out if a product is eligible for the RHI, please check Ofgem’s Product Eligibility List (www.ofgem.gov.uk).
We would also like to take this opportunity to remind all installers of the upcoming deadline for legacy installations, heating systems installed on or after July 15, 2009 and before April 9, 2014. All legacy applicants can now apply for the Domestic RHI but they have until 8 April 2015 to submit their application(s).