We threaten legal action over plans to slash solar subsidies7 November 2011
Friends of the Earth is calling on the Government to alter its plans to slash subsidies for households and communities that install solar panels, or face legal action.
Climate Change Minister Greg Barker announced plans last week to impose lower feed-in tariff payments after 12 December this year.
But Friends of the Earth has written to him, saying that unless the Government agrees to amend its proposals by 4pm on Friday 11 November, it will commence court proceedings.
The Government is breaking the law with its plans - as well as jeopardising thousands of jobs and countless clean energy projects across the country
Craig Bennett, Campaigns Director, Friends of the Earth
Projects under threat
Many solar energy projects across the country, including community energy projects that would benefit schools and hospitals, are under threat or have already been cancelled.
And schemes that would have seen thousands of social housing tenants benefit from lower fuel bills through having solar panels installed have already been abandoned.
The Government has launched a consultation on its proposals.
But the deadline for responses is 23 December, nearly two weeks after the new tariffs are to be introduced.
Take Action
Cutting solar subsidies will destroy the solar industry in its infancy.
Friends of the Earth's Final Demand campaign is calling for:
- Urgent action to stop the Government killing off our clean British energy providers.
- A public inquiry into the power of the Big Six energy companies.
Please sign our petition to David Cameron today.
© Friends of the Earth
