Oxford subsidiary to help local installers raise the profile of PV benefits
German photovoltaic specialist IBC SOLAR is expanding its operations in Europe by opening a subsidiary in Oxford. The global specialist is looking to develop a network of local installation partners to collaborate with both on roof installations and large scale projects. IBC SOLAR will offer trainings and workshops in installing the equipment necessary for photovoltaics, in addition to providing consulting services for projects of any size. As well as its own solar product line, IBC SOLAR’s main expertise lies in working together with local installation partners and experts to realise solar projects, supporting every step of the way, from conception, through installation, to monitoring and evaluation.
IBC SOLAR’s move to the UK has been accelerated since the introduction of the feed-in tariff in 2010, which provides a real incentive for homeowners and firms to invest in photovoltaics. “Despite the UK’s reputation for bad weather, solar irradiation, particularly in the south, is enough to make PV energy a credible way for the UK to reach its climate-protection goals”, said Andreas Heinrichs, Director of IBC SOLAR UK Ltd. Solar radiation in London can reach up to 1,130kWh/m2, the equivalent of levels in Berlin. IBC SOLAR is experienced in using all levels of solar irradiation to maximum effect.
The current UK feed-in tariff for PV installations on new buildings is 36.1 pence, while 41.3 pence will be paid for installations on existing buildings. Operators of larger installations will receive from 29-36 pence per kWh of electricity generated depending on the size of installation. The feed-in tariff is paid for 25 years and is financed using an apportionment scheme.
“A reliable feed-in tariff is the first crucial step to nationwide photovoltaic coverage”, explained Norbert Hahn, CEO of IBC SOLAR. “Our ultimate goal is to encourage the use of PV energy in the UK and we will do this through building up a network of partners who enable green energy generation. Our decades of global experience put us in a great position to succeed in this.”
www.ibc-solar.com
