A renewable energy firm says it is guaranteeing customers the highest rate of return on solar PV installations 'in a bid to end the confusion which currently exists in the market'.
Puragen is promising to subsidise any difference between the proposed Feed in tariff (FiT) rate of 21 per kWh and the current 43p per kWh for the first 12 months no matter what the outcome of the current legal wrangle between the Government and the Supreme Court.

The offer is available for all new solar installations, under 4kW, between now and March 31.

A company statement said: 'Consumer confidence and uncertainty regarding the installation of solar PV were thrown into confusion this week when the High Court ruled the Government's plans to rush through the reduction in the solar FiT was illegal.

'However, the Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC) has since stated that it will appeal this decision at the Supreme Court, leaving the burgeoning solar industry and many customers in a state of flux as to what the actual rate should be.'

Head of Puragen, Jeremy Malindine, added: 'The recent appeal to the Supreme Court means customers remain unclear on the level of incentive available to them up to March 31.

'Puragen has made a commitment to all of its customers that, regardless of the Supreme Court ruling, that it will subsidise any difference between the lower and higher level of FiT incentive for 12 months - giving peace of mind and confidence to consumers who install before March 31.'

In addition to the savings made by generating their own electricity, homeowners with solar PV installations are paid a rate for the electricity produced. Typically, at the 43p per kWh rate this could mean an extra return of around £1,000 per year on a domestic installation. At the 21p per kWh rate this could still be a guaranteed return of around £500 per year.

'Although we welcome the High Court decision, as it shows DECC has a responsibility to correctly consult with consumers and the industry, what is really needed now is to provide clarity to consumers regarding the precise level of incentive available,' said Mr Malindine.

'The demand for renewable energy is gathering pace and installations are becoming common-place. We need consumers to understand that choosing solar PV or any other renewable source is no longer unusual. By providing this assurance, we aim to bring some clarity to the market and help consumers get the full benefit from an installation.'

Puragen is described as 'a national network of renewable experts who provide advice, design, installation and maintenance of all renewable energy technologies'. It is part of the Ascertiva Group which includes the NICEIC, the national inspection council for electrical installation contractors.

Contact www.puragen.co.uk