Another window of opportunity to benefit from the generous solar feed-in-tariffs has closed, proving once again that it is imperative that you act now and install solar electricity before all rebates and feed-in-tariffs faze out. The ACT announced that they were closing the generous solar feed-in-tariffs to all new connections for the second time last week, though it looks like it’s for good this time.
With the generous feed-in-tariff being on hold - after already reaching three quarters of the cap. The announcement to re-open the Scheme to small scale generators caused an influx of solar sales and caused the scheme to reach full capacity in a couple of weeks. Unfortunately this has ceased the program not only for home solar systems, but also medium size systems.
“The Government warned against re-opening the Scheme and cautioned that it would further overheat a volatile market and would provide no certainty of a continuing market to industry. The fact that the combined cap was reached within two days proves the point beyond any doubt,” stated Acting Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development, Kathy Gallagher.
Originally the Government on the 31 of May closed the Micro Generator (Up To 30kW) category scheme, when it exceeded its statutory cap. So there’s no wonder there was a backlash from Acting Minister Gallagher against the Greens and Liberals for pushing through a Bill that allowed the miro-generators to share what was left of the 30 megawatt that was allocated to the medium sized scale generators.
The situation for new connections is still unclear at present, though a 1:1 net feed in tariff rate has taken it’s place for systems under 30kW. This means your energy retailers (AGL, Origin etc.) will pay you the same amount as you pay them. Though this rate isn’t as generous at the previous arrangement, home solar is still a viable investment, as it will help reduce your bills as well as act as a buffer against rising electricity costs.
Call your friendly Future Solar Solutions consultant on 1800 908 441 to discuss the best options available to you.
