NIBE Energy Systems has expressed its disappointment at further delays to the introduction of the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).
Despite an expected launch in summer 2013, the Department of Energy & Climate Change (DECC) has confirmed that the initiative will not be up and running to householders until spring 2014, with tariff levels for the scheme expected to be unveiled this summer. The announcement also revealed that the Renewable Heat Premium Payment (RHPP) grant programme will be extended until March 2014.

NIBE managing director Phil Hurley said: 'Renewable heat will play a central role if the UK is going to achieve its carbon reduction targets - so further delays to the domestic RHI are certainly disappointing. As a leading manufacturer we are committed to developing renewable heating solutions that can effectively meet growing demand in line with official targets.

'However, it takes more than just a well-engineered product to drive uptake. Confidence in secure, long-term tariff support is still needed for these technologies to compete with conventional heating systems on the necessary widespread scale.'

He added: 'As 30% of all carbon emissions come from homes, we know that renewables are set to form an essential part of the UK's future heating landscape. As it stands, these delays mean the Government is unlikely to meet its target of achieving 6.8 million heat pump installations by 2030.'