RenewableUK, the trade association representing the wind, wave and tidal energy industries, has urged the Government to announce a decision on financial support for the sector as a matter of urgency.
A decision on Renewables Obligation (RO) banding levels had originally been expected in the spring, but has been delayed repeatedly since then. An announcement was anticipated before parliament went into recess today, but has been delayed further while more discussions take place.
Maria McCaffery, Chief Executive of RenewableUK , said:
“RenewableUK is urgently calling for the Government to reach an agreement on the RO banding levels as quickly as possible. The economic evidence is crystal clear – it shows that there is no case for cutting support for onshore wind beyond the 10% originally proposed and consulted upon in the Government’s own review.
“Any further delay in an announcement could have a devastating impact on investor confidence, job creation and the deployment of clean energy. It would be unacceptable if the decision were to be delayed until September – especially as the new banding levels are due to come into force just seven months later, in April 2013. It is imperative that investment and job creation are not harmed in one of our key growth sectors. The industry is demanding clarity at the earliest possible opportunity as a matter of urgency”.
Under the proposals, support for offshore wind would be reduced by 5% in April 2015 and a further 5% in April 2016. Support for the UK’s nascent wave and tidal energy sector would increase to two and a half times the current level.
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Offshore WIND staff, July 17, 2012; Image: statkraft