Last updated at 10:16, Thursday, 22 November 2012

HE Renewable Energy sector group of Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster (BECBC) is leading on the co-ordination of Cumbria’s contribution to the latest green energy consultations from national government.

OPPORTUNITIES: Simon Sjenitzer, from Britain’s Energy Coast Business Cluster

The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has issued three different consultations about its Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) schemes and Simon Sjenitzer, who leads the BECBC sector group, is encouraging member companies from across Cumbria to have their say and combine their voices.

“The Business Cluster is all about pooling our knowledge, sharing opportunities and lobbying,” says Simon, “and there are encouraging signs with the tone and timing of these consultations that the government really is looking for constructive responses, ideas and inputs. It is vital that we make a contribution that shows the strength of feeling and the depth of knowledge and expertise on Britain’s Energy Coast – by collating that feedback. I think we can have a much stronger voice and help to shape these policies for the future.”

The consultations on RHI include the tariffs that government will offer to those installing and using green energy sources such as biomass boilers, solar thermal systems and air and ground source heat pumps and also the extension of RHI to community buildings, commercial and industrial customers as well as domestic homes. They aim to provide clarity for those considering investments and improve the OFGEM registration process for suppliers and scheme owners alike.

“These policies will have a big impact on the uptake of new technologies in the UK in the coming years,” says Simon, “so it is vital that Cumbria’s thriving renewables businesses have their say and make sure that they are heard in the debate around the details of how RHI will work.

“There will also be an impact for the construction sector and for community organisations and BECBC is proving a great forum for letting businesses know about the opportunities and then gathering our expertise to create a credible voice.”

Details of the three RHI consultations are online at www.decc.gov.uk. Further details on how to contribute are also available from Simon via Simon.Sjenitzer@westlakes-energy.co.uk or online at www.becbusinesscluster.co.uk.

First published at 13:26, Sunday, 18 November 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk