This is the second stage of the consultation, which began with an informal period gathering the views of industry.

The focus of the Strategy is electricity generation technology less than kW in size and heat generating technologies less than 300 kW in size.

This includes small scale technologies such as air, ground and water source heat pumps, solar thermal heating, solar photovoltaics, biomass boilers, CHP and micro wind turbines.

The Strategy is part of the Coalitions plans for energy efficiency in homes, which also involves the roll out of smart meters and the Green Deal.

Climate Change minister Greg Barker said: “I am planting the seeds for growth so we can see small scale energy generation flourish in homes, businesses and communities.

“All elements of the industry, from standards and access to information to technology and skills must be ready to deliver and grow.

“We’ve already pledged financial support to encourage people to install kit like solar panels and heat pumps, today’s consultation will ensure that the industry and consumers have the confidence to invest.”

The consultation will look at four key areas for development: quality of equipment; technology available and being developed; skills for supplying and installing equipment: and the provision of advice on microgeneration for homeowners.

The Government will publish the final Microgeneration Strategy in early 2011.

You can contribute to the consultation here.

Alison Brown

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