In response to the government’s proposed changes to the Feed in Tariff scheme hundreds of representatives of the UK solar industry marched on Parliament House in London to voice their disapproval of the changes. The timing of manner of the changes seemed to be the main focus of anger amongst attendees. The ‘Cut don’t Kill’ campaign has been a joint effort of the UK’s various industry bodies and continues to attract signatures for its online petition encouraging the government to help the industry slide into a new financial arrangement rather than be pushed off a steep cliff of change.
Howard Johns of Southern Solar and President of the Solar Thermal Association (STA) has been a lead organiser of the protest and as pleased with the turnout of the industry and urged the government to reconsider cuts that ‘will destroy’ the British solar industry in one foul swoop. The main fear is the potential loss of thousands of jobs coupled with the frustration that the industry potential to support renewable energy does not seem to be realised outside of the industry.
The day of protest began on Westminster Bridge with a parade of industry supporters carrying solar panels and placards highlighting the concerns and fears since the FiT review announcement. The group then rallied to hear speeches from shadow secretary for energy and climate change Caroline Flint, Green Party leader Caroline Lucas and Southern Solar managing director Howard Johns.
The group then moved to Parliament House and met with MPs to discuss options to the proposed change of direction.
The opposition Labour party plans to debate the issue and request the cut off date to be voided. Interested industry participants wait patiently now as the wheels of decision making move towards the planned conclusions.
