What to do next?

How to start getting the benefits of the Renewable Heat Incentive

As the rest of this site shows, there are many advantages to generating your own heat from renewable sources, both financial and for the environment. It’s easier than most people think to get started with renewable energy in the home or business.

Three simple steps:

1. Seek expert advice

You should seek a renewable energy company that both understand what the right energy options are for your property and how to maximise your financial return from the Renewable Heat Incentive. Don’t worry if some of the information on these pages sounds complicated, there are many specialists out there who can help advise you on each step of the process.

2. Find a capable supplier

If the system is sub 45kW, this means that the installer must be MCS certified and the products they use must also be MCS certified as well. All MCS installers also have to be registered with the REAL Code. REAL publishes a useful register of members which you can sort by technology (i.e. what sort of equipment you want) and region (though many claim to be active all over the country).

For solar thermal, heat pump and biomass installations, we have teamed up with British Eco, a nationwide installer, who we recommend you contact if you have an installation enquiry – British Eco customer enquiry form.

3. When eligible, register for the Renewable Heat Incentive

The RHI isn’t yet live, but starts in 2011 or Autumn 2012 depending on the type of system. However, that’s not to say you shouldn’t get started now on installing systems. Any eligible system installed now will be able to start receiving payments as soon as the RHI launches – and in the meantime you’ll still be saving money on heating bills.

Once the RHI does launch, most installers will able to assist with registering your system.