NICEIC welcomes government’s microgeneration strategy announcement

NICEIC has welcomed the government’s decision to launch a consultation on a microgeneration strategy for the household and business use of green technologies.

The consultation, announced by Climate Change Minister, Greg Barker, will look at a number of key areas including how consumer confidence can be enhanced through equipment and installation standards, and how to ensure that the microgeneration supply chain has the requisite skills to meet consumer demand. It will also examine how consumers can gain access to advice and information about microgeneration, and will trial new technologies in order to improve them.

The announcement follows plans to repeal the 1976 Local Government Act by the end of 2010 so that local councils can sell electricity produced from microgeneration technologies to the national grid.

NICEIC is at the forefront in promoting microgeneration and has seen a growing number of electrical contractors join its Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) and enrol on its related training courses. MCS registered contractors with NICEIC will be a crucial part of the supply chain for domestic and commercial users of microgeneration installations, especially as Feed In Tariffs (FITs) become more prevalent.

With over 100,000 microgeneration installations in the UK and growing consumer awareness, electrical contractors who become skilled in the design and implementation of these products stand to gain from the revenue generating opportunities on offer. The MCS was established to ensure quality products and services in the microgeneration sector.

“NICEIC wholeheartedly supports the decision to carry out this consultation,” says Emma McCarthy, NICEIC’s Chief Operating Officer. “Microgeneration will help to develop a sustainable society while reducing carbon emissions, and I would urge all electrical contractors to get involved with this exciting and potentially profitable sector.”