From 12 December 2011 the Feed-in Tariff has been cut from 43.3p per unit of electricity that solar PV generates to 21p.

We've been really busy answering questions from customers who had enquired about solar PV before the changes were announced by the government in October.

Many people have been asking how the reduction in the FiT will affect people who have already been in touch with us or were thinking about getting in touch to purchase solar panels for their home.

Here are the most common questions:

1. How is the FiT changing?
   If your solar panels are being installed before 12 December 2011, the FiT won’t change – you will receive 43.3p per unit (kWh) for the next 25 years. Systems installed between 12 December 2011 and 31 March 2012 will receive the FiT at 43.3p per kWh until 31 March. From 1 April this will reduce to 21p per kWh for the remainder of the 25-year term. For installations after 1 April 2012, the property must meet a minimum standard of EPC band C to receive the FiT, which will be paid at 21p per kWh for the entire 25-year term.
   
   
2. Will this affect me if I'm having free solar panels installed?
   No, this only affects people who are paying for their panels. However, if you are getting free solar panels because your roof meets our criteria perfectly, there are only a limited nuber of systems left, so please hurry and get in touch before they are gone!
   
   
3. What if I’ve already paid a deposit for my solar panels before the 12 December but my installation is taking place after the deadline?
   Unfortunately your solar PV system will qualify for the new lower rate of 21p per kWh. However there are two options available to you - we can either return your deposit - in full, no questions asked; or we will be in touch with a new, lower price to make your investment still worthwhile making. Don't forget, energy prices are still set to rise, the average electricity bill will cost £280 more every year by 2020*.
   
   
4. I was going to place my order, but now I’m not sure. What should I do?
   If you place your order now, we will be able to install your panels before you may need to carry out improvements to your home to meet EPC band C to qualify for 21p per kWh, however this is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is only a finite number of installations that we can install before 1 April 2012, so we urge you to contact us as soon as possible to take advantage of this incredible offer.
   
   It is worth noting that to help you benefit from the best return possible from your solar panels, we have reduced our prices by up to 30%; this means that a return of 10% is still possible. In doing this, not only have we made solar PV more affordable, but a great investment too.

*source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-15855888