http://www.newenergyworldnetwork.com/renewable-energy-news/by-technology/solar/uk-fit-scheme-%e2%80%98simpler%e2%80%99-than-us-incentives.htmlThe UK feed-in tariff scheme, that provides guarantees rates of return from energy produced by sub-5MW renewable energy installations, does not suffer from the complexities as incentive schemes in the US.Jason Williams, founding partner at Envirance Partners, said the design of the scheme has underpinned the growth of the small-scale solar sector in the UK.
‘Thankfully, the UK FIT scheme does not suffer the same complexity as the US,’ Williams said.
‘Installations must be completed by an MCS-accredited supplier to qualify for the FITs but there is no US-style permitting process.’
He said the fact domestic systems do not usually require planning permission has aided the UK industry further.
‘The simplicity and generosity of this scheme has helped drive impressive growth in the UK solar photovoltaic industry since its introduction in April 2010 and perhaps the US could learn from this.’
Incentives for solar installations varying on a state-by-state basis, and as such planning permissions and the rate of return can vary dramatically.