Guest Spot – Regen South West


Farmers need to stay alive to the renewable energy options


The rapid changes in government policy on renewable energy have left many farmers and landowners considering whether this sector still presents an opportunity for them in 2013.


Old Mill is able to offer a discounted ticket for the main South West event with all the answers – Regen SW’s Renewable Energy Marketplace (REM) on 19 March at Westpoint in Exeter.


Contrary to the impression from the press, the government’s Feed in Tariff subsidy for renewable energy is still very much in place, providing a guaranteed tax free and inflation linked income stream for twenty years. The government has made it crystal clear that once you have your project in place it won’t change the subsidies you receive.


Whilst the level of incentive for solar panels has gone down, the cost of panels has also tumbled dramatically, meaning that attractive rates of return are still available with much less capital required. Regen’s figures show there were over 40,000 installations of solar panels in the South West last year, so many local installers can now offer great expertise and experience.


Whilst solar panels are now a common sight, fewer landowners have realised the opportunities from the government’s new Renewable Heat Incentive. This scheme can provide very attractive rates of return on switching away from oil to biomass boilers. Again, there is a strong local supply chain with companies like Mole Valley Farmers and specialist installers that can install these technologies and supply fuel, as well as opportunities to self-supply wood-chip.


Wind, anaerobic digestion and hydro technologies also offer opportunities to many landowners. REM provides those interested in exploiting the renewable energy potential of their land with everything they need to know on the technologies available and the government incentives on offer – on one day in one place.


REM features over 80 exhibitors, expert seminars and a detailed guide to take away. We hope to see you at the event on 19 March. Merlin Hyman, chief executive, Regen SW


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Thanks to Old Mill, you can book your tickets online for just £10 (+VAT)! Visit www.renewableenergymarketplace.co.uk and use the code OLDMILLREM at the checkout.


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