Solar Feed in Tariff

“This Assembly notes the response from the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change to the Chair of the Assembly regarding the cuts to the solar Feed in Tariff and the motion passed by the Assembly on 4 November 2015.

This Assembly believes the decision to press ahead with cuts to the FiT is a short sighted decision which will seriously hamper efforts to make London a global leader on solar power.

The Assembly further notes:

• The UK is the only member of the G7 to increase fossil fuel subsidies whilst simultaneously attacking the renewables sector[1];
• London has the lowest amount of installed solar power capacity of any region in the UK[2];
• The Mayor’s statement in the London Infrastructure Plan that there will be “up to a 20 per cent increase in (energy) demand in the capital by 2050”[3]; and
• Analysis by the Solar Trade Association shows that almost 1,800 jobs have been lost in the UK solar industry, with many thousands more expected to go[4].

This Assembly was disappointed the Mayor failed to take a leadership role and stand up for London, by taking forward the Assembly’s suggestion of leading a delegation to meet with the Secretary of State.

The London Assembly represents the views and interests of over 8.5 million Londoners. The Secretary of State’s decision to shun London’s democratic institutions by refusing to meet a cross-party delegation of Members and entrepreneurs, sends the strongest message possible that the future sustainability of London’s energy supply and its renewables industry are a matter of worryingly low priority to the Government. Although the Government has now made its decision, this Assembly asks that the Mayor consider this request again, so to impress on the Secretary of State the likely impact of these changes.”

[1] The Guardian: UK becomes only G7 country to increase fossil fuel subsidies 12.11.15 (Accessed 14.1.16)

[2] London Assembly Report “Bring Me Sunshine” 23.10.15 (Accessed 14.1.16)

[3] The London Infrastructure Plan 2050 (Consultation) p.3 (Accessed 15.1.16)

[4] Solar Trade Association Press Release 30.11.15 (Accessed 15.1.16)