Commonly Asked Questions on Domestic RHI

What is the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive?It is a financial incentive scheme designed to encourage uptake of renewable heating among domestic consumers. 

The objective of the Domestic RHI is to significantly increase the proportion of heat generated from renewable sources. The RHI should help the UK meet EU targets to reduce carbon emissions. In addition the Domestic RHI has the wider potential of developing ‘green jobs’ and supporting green product innovation.

What Technologies are covered by the RHI? The domestic RHI will support the following renewable heat technologies:

Air source heat pumps Ground and water source heat pumps Biomass only boilers & Biomass pellet stoves with integrated boilers Solar Thermal (Flat plate and evacuated tube panels). Solar PV

What’s the Tariff? The domestic RHI will pay the following tariffs per unit of heat generated deemed on an EPC certificate. These tariff rates are contracted for a set period and have been calculated to reflect the expected cost of renewable heat generation. Payments are made on a quarterly basis.

Technology TariffAir-source Heat Pumps 7.3p/kWhGround and water-source heat pumps 18.8/kWhBiomass-only boilers and biomass pellet Stoves with integrated boilers

12.2p/kWh

Solar Thermal Panels (flat plate and evacuated tube for hot water only)

19.2p/kWh

Solar PV (Feed-in Tariff not RHI) 14.9pkWh + 4.6p export tariffExamples of pricing can be provided on request – customercare@heppelthwaite.co.uk

How much exactly will you get back? Exactly how much financial return you receive will be estimated based on each individual property and via the EPC (Energy Performance Certificate).

Can I get a better tariff by using a specific branded product?No. The tariff remains the same for everyone and is based on the EPC. However it’s important to consider the longevity of the systems by choosing a system that is reliable and cost effective to maintain. Our experienced technical experts will be able to bespoke a design that is suitable for any project no matter how big or small. They will advise on any aspects that may affect the systems performance or be able to boost its performance.

Who is eligible for the RHI?Homeowners, private, social, landlords, third party owners of heating systems and people who build their own homes. There is an RHI available for commercial properties, for more info please see www.evecosolutions.co.uk

Who does it apply to?The domestic RHI is targeted at homes off the gas grid but isn’t limited to just the off gas grid. Those without mains gas have the most potential to save on fuel bills and decrease carbon emissions. The scheme covers single domestic dwellings and is open to homeowners, private landlords, social landlords and self-builders. It is not open to new build properties other than self-build.

What are the requirements for eligibility?Applicants must complete a Green Deal Assessment for domestic only before submitting their application and must ensure they have met minimum loft and cavity wall insulation requirements, where applicable.

All installations and installers must be MCS certified (or certified by an equivalent scheme). MCS certified installers are currently required to be members of the Renewable Energy Consumer Code, which is backed by the Trading Standards Institute. Eveco meets all these requirements; we also include in our service support and guide all our customers on the application process.

Who is administrating the RHI?Ofgem are administrating the scheme, it is the government department responsible for regulating the gas and electricity markets.

Ofgem’s key objectives involve protecting consumers by ensuring that they are not being taken advantage of by energy suppliers, they also attempt to ensure that a certain amount of the profits made by the energy companies will pay for the safe supply of energy and that greenhouse gases are reduced as much as possible.

Consumers have obligations that must be reported to Ofgem, equipment must be maintained in-line with the manufactures guidelines and evidence of maintenance work must be kept. Ofgem will also be collecting data regarding your installation and energy use in order to tailor future policy.

How do I apply?You can apply through this link https://domesticrhi.ofgem.gov.uk/apply. Agents suppliers, installers or third parties cannot apply on behalf of the client, however we will guide you through the entire process and provide all the support you need.What if I’ve already installed renewable heat?RHI is eligible for renewable heating systems installed from 15th July 2009.

What if I have multiple renewable energy installations?A single RHI installation is one or multiple units of the same technology connected to a common heating system. For example, a Wood Pellet and Solar Thermal system will be treated as separate installations.

Can I replace an existing scheme that was installed prior to 15th July 2009?Yes, a replacement renewable heating system for one installed before 15th July 2009 will be eligible.

What if I increase the size of my system?If additional capacity of the same technology is added to the existing installation within 12 months of the original commissioning date, it will be treated as a single installation. Outside of the 12 months it would be treated separate and receive the current RHI Tariff.

Finding an installer?All installers must be certified and MCS approved. A quality installer will be able to offer the best solution for your property and will be able to provide honest estimated returns from your installation. They will be able to recommend the best installation methods, and spot any potential problems or hurdles to overcome prior to the installation. Sunlight, distance, positioning and many other factors play a part in your systems performance depending on what renewable energy system you are choosing. There are also options on how to boost or maximize your systems performance. A good installer will provide the best solution using different product options for each individual basis. Check warranties & ensure installation guarantees.

When can I go ahead?Right now! Contact us with your questions or to arrange an appointment with our specialists who can provide a FREE of charge estimate and investment summary.

About us

Heppelthwaite Green Building Solutions specialises in offering our clients practical Renewable Energy Solutions. We’re a family business established in 1948 and part of the Evans Group which provides the complete Plumbing, Heating and Renewable Energy service. Our services cater for a diverse group of clients, including Housing Developers, Housing Associations, Schools, Hospitals, Churches, Care homes, Estate Agents and of course direct with private home owners and tenants.

Heppelthwaite has pulled together the group's wealth of industry knowledge and experience to provide our clients with a professional consultation, design and installation service for renewable energy and energy conservation products.

For more information contact us on 01628 533 550 or visit www.ecogreenbuildings.co.uk / www.redvanplumbers.co.uk / www.rgevans.co.uk