The following are some of the most common questions you might have about the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI). For more you might want to check out our comprehensive Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive Guide.
What technologies are covered by the domestic RHI?
When did it start?
Who is eligible?
How dies the domestic RHI work?
What are the tariffs?
What if I have already installed renewable heat?
What if I already received a subsidy or grant such as the RHPP?
What do I need in order to apply?
How do I apply?
How will I be paid and for how long?
What technologies are covered by the RHI?
At this time the domestic RHI will support the following renewable heat technologies:
- Air to water heat pumps
- Biomass only boilers
- Biomass pellet stoves with back boilers
- Ground and water source heat pumps
- Flat plate and evacuated tube solar thermal panels.
When did the domestic RHI start?
The scheme launched in full on 9th April 2014, although those who have commissioned renewable heating systems since 15th July 2009 can also apply to be part of the scheme.
Who is eligible for the RHI?
Homeowners, private and social landlords, third party owners of heating systems and people who build their own homes. See Section 6 of the Domestic RHI Guide for eligibility requirements and details of what classes as domestic etc.
How does the domestic RHI work?
The RHI pays the owner of the system a set amount per kWh of heat energy generated. In the majority of cases the heating system will not need to be metered, and payments will instead be set according to the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) results of the property as well as the size of the heating system.
What are the tariffs?
The domestic RHI pays owners of renewable heating systems at the following levels (correct at May 2014):
| Technology | Tariff |
|---|---|
| Biomass Boilers | 12.2 p/kWh |
| Solar Thermal | 19.2 p/kWh |
| Air Source Heat Pumps | 7.3 p/kWh |
| Ground Source Heat Pumps | 18.8 p/kWh |
What if I already installed renewable heat?
Owners of renewable heating systems installed after 15th July 2009 but before the launch of the scheme on 9th April 2014 can apply to the scheme as legacy applicants. If you received Renewable Heat Premium Payment (RHPP) funding, then you will not be able to apply until 9th July 2014 (for those who received their RHPP funding before 20th May 2013) or until 9th October 2014 (for those whose RHPP funding application was made on or after 20th May 2013). No matter when your application slot is, you are guaranteed to receive the RHI tariff that was set at scheme launch, even if the scheme has had to reduce some payments to control their budgets. If you did not receive the RHPP then you can apply immediately. Legacy applicants have 1 year from the launch of the scheme to apply for the RHI. See Domestic RHI for Existing Installations for more details.
What if I already received a subsidy or grant?
If you previously received any public funding for the heating system, such as the Renewable Heat Premium Payment (RHPP) or a local authority grant, this must be declared as part of the application process. This will then be deducted from RHI payments under the scheme spread over the seven years for which you will be receiving payments.
What do I need in order to apply?
You must have a Green Deal Assessment before making your application. If this assessment recommends you improve your loft and / or cavity wall insulation, then you must do this prior to making your application, unless you are exempted because your building is listed, in a conservation area or for another reason. You also need an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) which is completed as part of the Green Deal assessment. Your installer needs to be MCS certified and the technology you are installing needs to also be MCS approved as well as being on the OFGEM acceptable products list. See Section 8 of the Domestic RHI Guide for details of the application process including checklists for application criteria and what you will need in order to complete your application.
How do I apply?
You can apply at: https://domesticrhi.ofgem.gov.uk/apply.
How will I be paid, and for how long?
Payments will be made quarterly and for seven years from the date of acceptance onto the scheme. Payments are made directly into your bank account.
If you would like to explore renewable heat for your property, follow this link to find and contact renewable energy installers including biomass, heat pumps and solar thermal.
