The IFA is calling on Minister for Communications, Climate Action & Environment Denis Naughten to fast-track the establishment of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) so that it is implemented in the first quarter of next year.

It is widely anticipated that Minister Naughten will use the National Ploughing Championships as a platform to launch the scheme. However, given the delays of the past, IFA is putting pressure on the Minister to ensure that any announcement provides full details of the scheme.

IFA renewables chairman James Murphy said that to ensure farmers benefit fully from the scheme, it wants:

  • A percentage of the RHI budget ring-fenced for agricultural and community based projects.
  • A minimum technology standard applied.
  • Successful applicants under the RHI who installed renewable heating systems prior to July 2014 to be eligible.
  • A requirement to show an economically justifiable heating need.
  • A minimum duration of support for 15 years, with the price linked to an energy index be introduced.

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