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Government delays 'damaging microrenewables market'
05/08/10
Companies that install low and zero carbon power sources such as small wind turbines and air source heat pumps are putting orders on hold after the government missed its own deadline for introducing new legislation that would allow households to add the devices without first seeking planning permission.The Micropower Council, an industry body representing the UK's microgeneration firms, told Building magazine that the delay is "damaging confidence among customers, investors and businesses".
A spokesperson for the group added: "We have members calling the office on a daily basis asking when this matter will be resolved."
David Mile of Intelligent Energy Solutions, which specialises in installing air source heat pumps, told the publication that some residential property owners are being "put off" the technology by having to seek planning permission.
Last month, climate change minister Greg Barker told the Micropower Council's summer conference that the coalition would bring forward legislation on permitted development rights before the parliamentary recess, but no draft law was introduced to parliament.
The Department for Communities and Local Government said the new regulations would be submitted to MPs "shortly".
