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RHI ‘makes mockery’ of energy policy
The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) “makes a mockery” of the debate surrounding future energy policy in NI, according to the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU).
A recent report by independent consultant Andrew Buglass confirmed that biomass boiler owners are reverting to fossil fuels due to RHI tariff cuts.
In a statement, the UFU said this trend is continuing due to the recent slump in the price of oil and other fossil fuels.
A rise in RHI tariffs has been proposed by the Department for the Economy which would increase the maximum annual payment for a 99kW biomass boiler from £2,340 to £3,250.
However, UFU deputy president Victor Chestnutt has described it as “a drop in the ocean” to what is required.
“We want to see the full reinstatement of a tariff that is reflective of the true costs,” he said. The UFU have requested an urgent meeting with Economy Minister Diane Dodds.
Farmer views sought on research agenda
The farmer funded body AgriSearch is seeking views from levy payers as part of a wide-ranging review of its research and knowledge exchange strategy.
AgriSearch is funded by NI farmers from levies equating to 0.02p/l of milk, 30p/head for beef cattle and 5p/head for sheep.
Farmers can air their views through an online survey which is available at www.agrisearch.org and closes to responses on 21 June.
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