You may already know that towards the end of 2009 and early 2010, there was a shortage of solar modules. The situation improved and most manufacturers are reporting reasonable availability. However, the industry is now suffering from a shortage of solar components, in particulr solar inverters (which convert the energy from solar PV panels to use in the home or premises). This is as a result of rising demand which followed the announcement of the Clean Energy Cashback Scheme, extensions to subsidies in other European countries and a worldwide shortage of components required in the manufacturing process of Inverters.

Therefore, the majority of the UK’s solar PV installers are struggling to cope with the rise in demand, and sparse stocks. At Access Renewables we’ve been relatively fortunate in that we have planned ahead for the rise in demand and have secured a large amount of stock for our customers, which means we can often install systems more quickly than other suppliers – ensuring your system is installed before the summer!

We have stock of a wide range of solar modules from manufacturers such as Mitsubishi (PV-TD185MF5 module), Sharp (NU180E1 and NU185E1), Kyocera (KD210G2PU), Romag Powerglaz and Suntech STP210 to name a few. We also have frequent deliveries of Fronius, SMA, Diehl and Mastervolt inverters. And we’ve secured supplies for many months to come.

So, how is the Clean Energy Cashback Scheme directly affecting our customers? Well all customers are reporting quick success with dealing with the administration-side of things (we’ll take care of a large chunk of this), so the transition has been very smooth indeed.

If you are looking to install a Solar PV system, talk to us. We’ll get your system installed usually within a matter of weeks, meaning you’ll be enjoying the rewards of the summer sun much more quickly!

For more information, simply select your customer ground in the boxes above – you’ll be whisked away to the area which will be most relevant to you and your project. Alternatively, simply call us on 01642 606096.

The DECC has today confirmed that, under it’s Clean Energy Cashback Scheme, anyone who installs a solar PV system in the UK will be eligible to receive a set rate for each unit of energy that the system produces (kWh) plus an additional reward for any energy exported back to the National Grid.

All systems installed after 1st July 2009 will be eligible for the following rates:

• Solar PV – Under 4kw (retrofit) – 41.3p
• Solar PV – Under 4kw (new-build) – 36.1p
• Solar PV – 4-10kw  – 36.1p
• Solar PV – 10kw – 100kw  – 31.4p
• Solar PV – 100kw – 5mw – 29.3p

This means that for an average home installing 2kw of Solar PV onto their roof (at an assumed cost of £12,500) using a Microgeneration Certification Scheme-approved contractor would receive around £850 per year, plus reduce their energy bills by around £150.

The new scheme will be managed by OFGEM and will be administered through the customers current electricity provider. The rates are expected to be tax-free, and index-linked.

We are expecting this recent announcement to increase the demand for Solar PV systems in the UK, and so we are encouraging customers to contact us as soon as possible. On the 31st March 2010, the Low Carbon Buildings Programme grant scheme for homeowners will close, as the Clean Energy Cashback Scheme is to replace this. However, you can apply for the grant now (and have 3 months to install) and also benefit from the new scheme. Most homeowners will be eligible for a grant of £2000-£2500.

However, there is currently a shortage of Solar inverters and some solar modules across Europe, and the new scheme is likely to make the things worsen. So in order to meet the deadline for the grant, and to ensure you can have a system installed in time we really stress that you should contact us without delay.

As an expanding business involved in the supply and installation of Solar PV systems, Access Renewables are delighted to receive confirmation of the new rates and the commitment to the industry shown by DECC and the Government. This new package will provide the basis on which we can expand as a business - as levels of trade increase, so too will our company in terms of employees, abilities and strength. Sean Collier of Access Renewables comments: “The new figures seem fair and in-line with other EU countries. This should provide a real incentive to homeowners, businesses and other organisations to install systems for which they will be rewarded for financially, and not forgetting the non-financial rewards of creating green energy of their own. The expected increase in installations will enevitably result in more jobs in our business and the industry in general.”

Link to the DECC’s press release: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/news/pn10_010/pn10_010.aspx

Sharp NU180E1 affected

The availability of Solar modules throughout the UK and Europe is being disrupted as a result of changes to Feed-in tariffs in other European countries, resulting in a spike in demand which has depleted UK stocks of a wide number of modules.

As a major installer of solar photovoltaic systems in the UK, Access Renewables are working with key suppliers to ensure the disruption is minimal during the shortage period, which is expected to return to normal levels in January.

However, we are urging customers who are looking to install systems between now and April 2010 – in particular those who may be eligible for grant funding from The Low Carbon Buildings Programme – to contact us to plan as far in advance as possible, to ensure that we can allocate sufficient levels of stock.

In April 2010, homeowners will no longer be able to receive the £2000-£2500 grant available to install Solar Photovoltaic systems in their homes as a result of the government’s Clean Energy Cashback scheme coming into force, which is expecting to reward homeowners with between 36.5 and 46.5p for each unit they generate. For systems installed now, and before April 2010, customers will be able to benefit from both schemes.

For public-sector clients, including schools, housing associations, charities, local authorities and government departments a grant of 50% may still be available if applications are made without delay. Again, these clients will also be eligible for the Clean Energy Cashback scheme starting in April 2010. All systems which are funded by The Low Carbon Buildings Programme must be installed by the end of March 2010.

In repsonse to the stock shortages and changes to funding schemes, Access Renewables have launched a new offer for Homeowners wishing to benefit from both schemes, and are offering high quality systems at market-leading prices by booking installations in advance. We’ve also reduced the deposit required from customers on these very special deals to just £250 rather than the standard rates of between 10% and 25%.

For more information on any of our systems, special offers orthe range of products and services we provide – use our contact form or call us on 01388 606024.