What is Competent Roofer? 

Membership of Competent Roofer Ltd is not automatic. Contractors must satisfy certain criteria in order to qualify for membership. Competent Roofer conduct random inspections on works to ensure contractors meet with the Building Regulations. Competent Roofer is a Government-authorised Competent Person Scheme that allows roofers to self-certify that their refurbishment work abides by Building Regulations as an alternative to submitting a building notice or using an approved inspector.

 Why should I use a Competent Roofer? 

• If you use a Competent Roofer contractor there is no need to notify LABC and wait for approval; therefore, there will be no delays to work and no inspection fees to pay, saving both time and money.
• You will have the added reassurance that the roofing contractor is regularly inspected, is competent and complies with Building Regulations.
• It is a requirement of Competent Roofer Ltd that the customer is provided with a written guarantee from the contractor. All domestic works carried out by a Competent Roofer receive a free 10 year insurance warranty which includes breach of Building Regulations and contractor insolvency.  Please contact D&J Roofing & Solar if you require sample copies of: Competent Roofer Insurance Backed Guarantee (schedule and summary)

 What are Building Regulations? 

The Building Regulations apply to building work in England and Wales and set minimum standards for design and construction of buildings. They exist to make sure that buildings are safe, healthy and easy to access. They also set important standards for efficient fuel and power consumption. 

It is a legal requirement for certain roof repairs and replacements to be registered with your Local Authority Building Control or with an approved self-certification scheme. D&J Roofing & Solar Limited has chosen to join an approved self-certification scheme called Competent Roofer Limited.

REMEMBER: Complying with Building Regulations is a separate matter from getting planning permission for your work.

What if I fail to comply with Building Regulations?

 It is a legal requirement to comply with Building Regulations.

• If you do not comply you are at risk of prosecution and could face a fine of up to £5,000.
• If the work carried out on your roof does not comply with Building Regulations your home may be unsafe.
• If you have not notified LABC or used a Competent Roofer you will not receive a Building Regulations Completion Certificate and you may have difficulties if you try to sell your home

Competent Roofer Ltd – Building Regulation Compliance Certificate

This Certificate is to certify that the roof refurbishment to your property is compliant with the appropriate Building Regulations that were in force at the time when the works were carried out. We will provide details of the work allowing Competent Roofer to issue a Building Regulation Compliance Certificate and pass the relevant details to your Local Authority Building Control Office.  Please contact D&J Roofing & Solar if you require a sample copy of: Competent Roofer Building Regulations Certificate.

Source: www.competentroofer.co.uk

The carbon footprint of lead, compared with other hard metals, is extremely low making it a very environmentally friendly material. Its lifespan also means it lasts a generation without having to be replaced – on average more than three times longer than other proprietary flashing products. There is also an established recycling infrastructure so almost 100% of the waste can be re-used. Lead’s longevity means that architects can safely use it in designs needing to comply with Eurocode requirements for a 60 year design life.

Alongside these qualities Franklin + Andrews highlighted the economic benefits of using lead. Over a 40 year period lead can be up to 50% cheaper than most manmade flashing products and over 65 years it is almost 100% cheaper. Lead is seen as being so safe and reliable that it is possible to obtain a 25 year guarantee covering the material and its installation when installed by an LCA accredited lead contractor. Notwithstanding the guarantee, with lead there is almost no risk of leakage and little inspection or maintenance required, providing peace of mind for building owners.

In these tough economic times it can be tempting to opt to purchase, or specify, seemingly cheaper alternative materials, but this research emphasises what many in the construction industry have known for years – with lead, you get a great result, that not only looks fantastic, but lasts longer, costs less and is fully recyclable.

Alongside this research, the LSA also undertook installation trials in its workshop using some of the proprietary products. These trials gave rise to some interesting results that are often overlooked.

For example, lead can be installed in almost any conditions, whereas other products are sensitive to weather conditions and are dependent on adhesives which can be problematic at low temperatures and damp environments. Unless the weather is dry and the temperature above 5°C, there can be installation delays and adhesion issues. Specifiers need to consider these factors as there can be potential delays if roofing work is scheduled for completion during the wet and cold winter months.

The LSA also discovered that in the literature accompanying some of these products there were warnings about degradation under UV light. The range of temperatures experienced in the UK also seemed capable of causing brittleness to some proprietary products and the UV light could impact on their effectiveness. In terms of life span, most of these products have yet demonstrated they, or their jointing materials, will last beyond one third of the life of lead. 

Whilst there are a number of alternatives on the market this external research coupled with trials in our workshop demonstrates the cost effectiveness, green credentials and ease of installation which makes lead a great product for use in everyday situations, as well as for truly special applications.

 Source:  www.leadsheet.co.uk (Issue 8 – Spring 2012)

Please contact the office for further information on this months promotion.

We are producing electricity to power our office during the day for free.  Reducing our Co2 emissions and helping to save the planet.

If you want to see solar PV working and how it should be installed call into our showroom where we have solar panels, slates/tiles installed into roofs.

Manufactured in the UK Marley Eternit fibre cement slates have the lowest environmental impact giving a clear carbon footprint advantage over slate alternatives.  Fibre cement slates can contribute towards achieving the highest Code for Sustainable Homes and BREEAM ratings.

Thrutone slates offer superb aesthetics and their design flexibility make them an excellent choice for all types of new build and refurbishment projects, including houses, flat-to-pitched roof conversions and commercial projects.

They are available in small format slates through to large decorative cladding panels.  Fibre cement slates have natural slate look, smooth finish and square cut edges.  They are lightweight, strong and durable and make for an excellent option for use with PV solar panels.

www.marleyeternit.co.uk

The building is a period property in a conservation area.  We will be installing Marley/Eternit Ashdowne Handcrafted Clay Plain tiles and a lead flat roof.  Each tile is unique with a granular texture and slight irregularities that bring character and warmth.  All work will be carried out by our heritage team.

We have nearly completed works on a prestigious project for MiVan Prime (main contractor) on a 3 storey semi detached house in Earls Court.

The roof was removed completely and new rafters fitted over a steel frame, 3 barrel roof dormers were constructed.  The main roof was covered in Welsh Penrhyn Natural Slates with code 5 lead coverings to the dormers.  All was carried out by our heritage team.  Leadwork will be guaranteed for 25 years under the lead contractors association members guarantee scheme.

All slating will be guaranteed for 10 years under the NFRC competent roofer scheme.

Work was carried out for ACS Construction (main contractor) and consisted of reroofing using Spanish Cupa Natural Slates to the rear and reclaimed slates to the front.

The old stable building in the mews at the rear was re-covered using Eternit Thrutone Slates.

All lead work was carried out using code 6 lead to barrel dormers, code 5 lead to box gutters and code 4 lead to flashings.

Our stand at Ecobuild was a great success.  There were a lot of enquiries for fully integrated systems such as the solar century C21E slate/tile and the Redland PV slate/tile.  Both these products can be fully integrated into an existing roof.

Sitting flush with the existing slates/tiles they are accepted by conservation officers and can be installed on listed buildings and conservation areas (subject to local approval)

For an aesthetically pleasing PV system contact us for further details.

Since the beginning of the year, the UK solar industry has installed 20,146 systems totalling 63.24MW of capacity.

Installation numbers for the week ending February 19 show 5,223 systems were completed in that week compared to 4,640 for the week ending February 12. The rate of install falls back in line with October 2011 levels.

The new figures edge the UK’s total installed capacity over the 1GW landmark. The UK solar market has surprised even the most optimistic of predictions by reaching the milestone in only 22 months, after an extremely successful uptake of Government’s feed-in tariff scheme. Gaynor Hartnell, Chief Executive of the Renewable Energy Association, commented on the industry’s achievement, stating: “Solar really deserves recognition in the Government’s renewable energy strategy now. With the price coming down like it is, there is no reason for it not to fill a prominent part in UK energy for 2020 and beyond. It needs re-examining in light of this milestone.”

The installation of 1GW capacity in the UK follows the Climate Change Minister, Greg Barker’s commitment to see 22GW of solar capacity installed in the UK by 2020. The minister hopes that cumulative installs over the next three years will amount to 4.3GW. Barker expects a further 3.5GW of solar to be installed before the end of the Coalition’s term.

However, following recently announced cuts to the feed-in tariff the solar industry is less optimistic about reaching the Coalition’s ambitious targets. David Hunt, a Director with Eco Environments, said: “The cuts and proposals fly in the face of Greg Barker’s declared ambition to encourage the installation of 22GW of solar before 2020, with the changes recommended there will be no one willing to buy and no one left to install it.”

The continued ambiguity over the FiT rate entitled to those solar installations registered between 12/12/11 and 03/03/2012 will also have a detrimental effect on the market. Government’s decision to appeal to the Supreme Court will prolong the level of uncertainty facing the market until March 3, when newly-proposed FiT rates come into effect.

Source: www.solarpowerportal.co.uk

Following phase one of the Feed-in Tariff Scheme (FiTs) consultation, DECCs Greg Barker has announced what DECC describe as improvement plans for a more sustainable FiTs future.  Due to ongoing legal proceedings the government are unable to confirm rates for solar PV installations with an eligibility date between 12 December 2011 and 3 March 2012.

1. From 3 March 2012 a new tariff scale will come into effect, including a 21p per unit for domestic scale installations
2. From 1 April 2012 a D rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) or above will be required to qualify for the full FiT
3. From 1 April multi-installation tariff rates (which are 80% of the single installation rates) will apply to projects with 25 installations or more
4. A higher Micro-CHP tariff will be introduced to encourage greater uptake

The second phase of the consultation which will close on 3 April 2012 features specific solar PV tariff proposals which are scheduled to come into effect from 1 July 2012.  The new scale is intended be flexible and designed to react to the level of installations. The rates in the table below are based on the installed capacity in March and April reaching: >200MW (Option A), 150-200MW (Option B) or <150MW (Option C):

Please refer to DECC Document  2A for full details of these different installation scenarios.  The closing date for this aspect of the consultation is 3 April 2012.

DECC are also considering an export tariff review, removing index-linking, a mechanism for future regular reductions (“degression”), a payback period of 20 years, and reducing non-community-owned multi-installations to the “stand alone” rate from October 2012.

DECCs 2B Document outlines further proposals which apply to all other renewable energy technologies.  The closing date for this aspect of the consultation is 26 April 2012.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week, one of CITB-ConstructionSkills’s Internal Verifiers, Steve Hyatt visited the Lead Sheet Association in East Peckham to gain some first-hand experience of the types of skills and challenges our apprentices face.

In the second of three Apprentice Experience films, Steve tries his hand at making a lead chimney apron and gets to hear more from both apprentices and employers about why apprenticeships continue to be the preferred route to industry.

Building in association with CITB-ConstructionSkills has created this film series – “Under Construction: The Apprentice Experience” – following a number of high profile leaders on their voyage to discover what apprenticeships are really like, whether they really do add value to the industry, and what role they have in helping businesses prepare for the upturn.

View the entire series here – http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL09F4978A2F25798F&feature=view_all

Produced by Building Client Solutions. Visit http://www.beclientsolutions.com for more information.

They have not appealed yet but do not have to lodge their appeal until 22nd February, so we can expect them to prevaricate for as long as possible. Obviously this is going to cause confusion with customers, so see below for how we would like to help by offering a rebate if the tariff ever does get changed prior to 3rd March.

Source: Solar Century

The three Lords Justices of Appeal announced their reserved judgment this morning following a hearing on January 13.

The court judgement means customers who have installed solar since December 12, and those who intend to install systems before the March 3 cut-off point, will receive the higher feed-in tariff rates for the full 25 years. However, customers who register on or after March 3 will qualify for the current higher rate until April 1, when the FiT will drop to the lower rates, as set out in the October 31 announcement.

Commenting on the decision, Daniel Green, CEO of HomeSun, said: “Four judges, including three in the Court of Appeal, have now called the Government’s actions illegal. That’s a four-nil victory and a decisive ruling that Government may not make retrospective changes to the FiT because, as Lord Justice Moses concludes, to do so ‘would be to take away an existing entitlement without statutory authority.’”

“Both this appeal and the Judicial Review in The High Court would not have been required had DECC simply followed its own process and allowed the industry, that it claims to support, time to prepare for a lower feed-in tariff,” continued Green.

Tweeting post judgement, Greg Barker, Minister of State for Energy and Climate Change, said, “Win, lose or draw today, important we move forward together, drive down costs + step up deployment.”

Clare King, a renewable energy lawyer at Osborne Clarke, said: “This decision will be a surprise to many observers. We, like many others, will be studying the judgment closely so as to fully understand the implications for the UK solar industry.”

It is currently unclear whether Government will appeal to the Supreme Court.

Further clarification on what actually happened today can be read here.

News source via: www.solarpowerportal.co.uk

“We are very pleased with our new roof and the solar tiles. The solar cells are working well. A first class job!! Also the roofers left the site clean and tidy at all times. Thank you everyone at D & J”

Britain has some of the oldest building stock in Europe. Our draughty homes are poorly insulated, leaking heat and using up energy. As consumers, we pay a high price for inefficient housing – and so does the planet. A quarter of the UK’s carbon emissions comes from the energy we use to heat our homes, and a similar amount comes from our businesses, industry and workplaces.

Today we are launching the Green Deal, a revolutionary programme to bring our buildings up to date.

Under the Green Deal, bill payers will be able to get energy efficiency improvements without having to front up the cash. Instead, businesses will provide the capital, getting their money back via the energy bill. At the heart of the offer is a simple rule: estimated savings on bills will always equal or exceed the cost of the work.

It’s a flexible framework, one that gives businesses and consumers the opportunity to make the energy efficiency improvements that best suit their situation.

Millions of homes and businesses could benefit from improvements under the Green Deal. Owner-occupiers and tenants will both be able to reap the rewards of better energy efficiency. And there will be extra help for those most in need, such as the vulnerable, those on low incomes and those with homes that are expensive to treat.

The Green Deal also represents a significant opportunity for businesses. Retailers, tradespeople, energy companies and investors will have access to a huge and growing market, with implications for jobs and skills across the supply chain – and across the country, with no regional bias.

We predict that the supply chain could support 100,000 jobs within five years, spread across the United Kingdom. By making our homes and businesses more energy efficient, we can cut our carbon emissions and make real progress toward our 2050 emissions reduction target.

Chris Huhne, Secretary of State of Energy and Climate Change

“As electric car owners we were attracted by the idea of using solar energy to power our car, so as to have a genuinely zero-emission form of transport.  Our south facing roof was ideal for solar panels.  We obtained a large number of quotes from companies of varying experience.  We were concerned that the installation of solar panels should not to do any damage to our slate roof.  We had used D&J before for roofing work and chose them as the most experienced roofers amongst the companies we had approached.

We are delighted with the result.  We hope to generate the majority of the power the car consumes, as well as benefitting from the feed-in tariff payments.”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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“Initially we thought that having solar panels would solve the problem when power cuts occur (since we are not building enough power stations). Having been told that we need electricity to the inverter to get the electricity we decided that the feed in tariff sounded good.

My husband looked specifically for a company that did both roofing and solar. Even if we had not gone for the whole roof being replaced we realised that the tiles under the panels would need to go: plus we had to have a small chimney removed to reduce all shading.

So far it has been fun having the panels: we look at readings every evening and note them down. I have plotted sunshine graphs for November and December!!” 

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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“Me and my partner recently moved to Edenbridge. The first job on our agenda was to look into having Solar panels fitted to reduce our electricity bills. 

We didn’t realise that there was a government backed scheme (FiT). When the surveyor from D & J visited he explained how everything works with the scheme which was very reassuring.

The reason we choose D & J over other companies was because they are roofers with a team of electricians. Some of the other companies we approached seemed to be just electricians with limited roofing experience.  

The job was carried out quickly and efficiently. I will definitely be recommending D & J in the future.”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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“We were initially stimulated to consider solar PV initially by having seen several installations in Europe and by the publicity concerning the Government’s proposed subsidy and encouragement to install this form of renewable energy which is now becoming widespread across Europe. We have seen the several very successful installations in areas where the ecological and conservation considerations have priority such as in National Parks and particularly in the Alpine regions are crucial, we both feel that renewable energy would become increasingly needed over the next decade as fossil fuels were depleted and we should examine the field.”

“Our property is relatively modern (1959), being in a conservation area, it  meant we had to be particularly considerate of the overall appearance and follow the planning guidance and regulations locally of our conservation group and the architect advising them.”

“Having studied all the available systems and several companies in the field we were delighted that an in-roof system could be fitted by the local and extremely helpful firm of roofers who gave very useful advice on the planning details required as part of the permission and licence obtained and were extremely competitive on price.”

“On careful inspection of our roof I noted some repairs would be needed and needed professional roofers to deal with at the same time as installing the Solar PV system, having brought this to their attention we were very pleased to get this work completed without any additional scaffolding and at less cost. I would recommend a specialist roofing company to be used where possible to preserve the weather proof features of your roof.”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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I was keen to see if we could reduce our electricity costs, while at the same time making a “green” investment.

I had used D&J Roofing for a major repair several years ago. I was very impressed with the quality of the work and the friendliness and dedication of their trades-people. When I found out that D&J Roofing now carry out Solar PV installations I immediately contacted them for a quote. I found them to be competitive on price, so I had no hesitation in awarding them the work.

The installation went very smoothly; D&J Roofing kept to time and did a neat and tidy job.

Mr Lane, East Dulwich

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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“I wanted to do my bit for the environment and I had just moved home so it was an ideal time to have solar panels fitted that would effectively pay for themselves. D&J were my choice because they’re a proper local roofing company with the right accreditations both with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme and the Renewable Energy Association. The price was good and D&J did a very professional job. I’m very pleased with my installation. It looks good it’s doing good.”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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Blackfriars Bridge’s new roof will feature 4,400PV panels, which will generate 900,000kWh of electricity a year. Image: Solarcentury

On Tuesday work began on a project to give London’s Blackfriars Bridge a thoroughly 21^st century makeover. The project, carried out by Solarcentury, will see 4,400 PV panels installed on the iconic bridge as part of Network Rail’s £550 million redevelopment of Blackfriars station and bridge.

When completed, the 6,000m² roof array will make Blackfriars the largest solar bridge in the world. The panels, one of several energy-saving measures incorporated into the redevelopment of the 242-year-old bridge as part of Network Rail’s Thameslink programme, will generate around 900,000kWh of electricity a year and cater for half of the station’s energy requirements.

“We’re creating a spacious, modern station and delivering a vastly improved train service for passengers, while at the same time installing London’s largest solar array to make Blackfriars more environmentally-friendly and sustainable,” said Network Rail’s Project Director, Lindsay Vamplew. “The Victorian rail bridge at Blackfriars is part of our railway history. Constructed in the age of steam, we’re bringing it bang up to date.”

Derry Newman, Solarcentury’s Chief Executive, which worked with engineers Jacobs to incorporate solar PV into the station design, said: “It’s fantastic to see this project finally come to fruition. Blackfriars Bridge is an ideal location for solar; a new, iconic large roof space, right in the heart of London.”

The installation missed the deadline for the fast-track feed-in tariff and consequently will not benefit from the higher incentive rates. However, this was not considered a problem by those working on the project. “We’re creating a spacious, modern station and delivering a vastly improved train service for passengers, while at the same time installing London’s largest solar array to make Blackfriars more environmentally-friendly and sustainable,” added Vamplew. “The Victorian rail bridge at Blackfriars is part of our railway history. Constructed in the age of steam, we’re bringing it bang up to date with 21^st century solar technology to create an iconic station for the city.”

Wrote by Chris Whitmore – Solar Power Portal

www.solarpowerportal.co.uk

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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“We are very pleased with our new roof and the solar tiles. The solar cells are working well. A first class job!! Also the roofers left the site clean and tidy at all times. Thank you everyone at D & J”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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“I really like the way the panels are barely visible from my garden or those of my neighbours. D & J did some drawings to show what the panels would look like and also they met with local development criteria. The work was done in one day by a very cheerful team. I’m looking forward to making major savings on my bills and reducing carbon emissions.”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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Mr and Mrs Bush are previous customers to D&J Roofing and Solar. We renewed there roof about 2-3 years ago using Eternit Thrutone slates. Mr and Mrs Bush have a big space on their south facing back addition roof. Since 2 of there neighbours have installed solar PV, they begun to see the benefits of the roof space they have available.

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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Homes could be severely damaged if roof mounted renewable technologies are not installed effectively, according to a new guide from the NHBC Foundation.

While the potential energy savings to be made from solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) systems and microwind turbines could be considerable, the potential for generating roof leakages through rain penetration, and structural damage to walls from wind action is high if roof mounted microgeneration systems are not installed correctly.

The guide to installation of renewable energy systems on roofs of residential buildingsexplains how, in the absence of specific UK or European standards, there is confusion over best practice in installation – in some cases leading to failures and significant damage to homes.

The guide provides installers, housebuilders and homeowners with a number of appropriate methods for installing renewable energy systems safely and effectively to avoid any compromise the built fabric of the house.  It explains how to correctly fix renewable energy systems, depending upon location and roof type, to withstand the impact of variable UK weather including torrential rain, snow and strong winds.

The renewable energy systems detailed in the guide include PV and solar thermal systems and microwind generation. The information provided includes:

- how to integrate PV and solar panels into the roof structure

- fixing options for fastening PV and solar panels to roofs

- effective methods of strengthening the roof structure

- appropriate positioning of microwind turbines to catch wind

- fixing options for microwind turbines, that will enable the structure to withstand vibrations of the turbine as the blades rotate

To complement the publication of the guide, NHBC will be running a series of two new training courses across 10 locations in the autumn in conjunction with ConstructionSkills, managing the installation of low and zero carbon technologies.  This series of courses for site managers and supervisors will provide the fundamental knowledge they need to deliver design requirements on site, and manage and inspect the installations effectively.

Graham Perrior at NHBC Foundation said: “Recent Government initiatives, such as Feed-in Tariffs and the Renewable Heat Incentive, are encouraging consumers to embrace renewable technology.  However, while there is widespread enthusiasm for these initiatives, there is a gap in knowledge about the best way to install renewable technology on a domestic scale.

“Use of renewable energy technology is much advanced across parts of Europe, so there exists a tendency to follow instructions and examples set elsewhere.  Unfortunately, the UK’s unique weather system requires a specific approach to installation – for example, the potential for prolonged periods of rain in conjunction with high winds is something that must be thoroughly considered to ensure satisfactory installation.

Through the guide and series of training courses, NHBC Foundation and NHBC will help housebuilders, installers and homeowners to install renewable energy systems in a sustainable and safe way.”

http://www.nhbcfoundation.org/NewsMediaCentre/Domesticrenewableenergysystems/tabid/456/Default.aspx

While the potential energy savings to be made from solar thermal and photovoltaic (PV) systems and microwind turbines could be considerable, the potential for generating roof leakages through rain penetration, and structural damage to walls from wind action is high if roof mounted microgeneration systems are not installed correctly.

The guide to installation of renewable energy systems on roofs of residential buildings explains how, in the absence of specific UK or European standards, there is confusion over best practice in installation – in some cases leading to failures and significant damage to homes.

The guide provides installers, housebuilders and homeowners with a number of appropriate methods for installing renewable energy systems safely and effectively to avoid any compromise the built fabric of the house.  It explains how to correctly fix renewable energy systems, depending upon location and roof type, to withstand the impact of variable UK weather including torrential rain, snow and strong winds.

The renewable energy systems detailed in the guide include PV and solar thermal systems and microwind generation. The information provided includes:

- how to integrate PV and solar panels into the roof structure

- fixing options for fastening PV and solar panels to roofs

- effective methods of strengthening the roof structure

- appropriate positioning of microwind turbines to catch wind

- fixing options for microwind turbines, that will enable the structure to withstand vibrations of the turbine as the blades rotate

To complement the publication of the guide, NHBC will be running a series of two new training courses across 10 locations in the autumn in conjunction with ConstructionSkills, managing the installation of low and zero carbon technologies.  This series of courses for site managers and supervisors will provide the fundamental knowledge they need to deliver design requirements on site, and manage and inspect the installations effectively.

Graham Perrior at NHBC Foundation said: “Recent Government initiatives, such as Feed-in Tariffs and the Renewable Heat Incentive, are encouraging consumers to embrace renewable technology.  However, while there is widespread enthusiasm for these initiatives, there is a gap in knowledge about the best way to install renewable technology on a domestic scale.

“Use of renewable energy technology is much advanced across parts of Europe, so there exists a tendency to follow instructions and examples set elsewhere.  Unfortunately, the UK’s unique weather system requires a specific approach to installation – for example, the potential for prolonged periods of rain in conjunction with high winds is something that must be thoroughly considered to ensure satisfactory installation.

Through the guide and series of training courses, NHBC Foundation and NHBC will help housebuilders, installers and homeowners to install renewable energy systems in a sustainable and safe way.”

http://www.nhbcfoundation.org/NewsMediaCentre/Domesticrenewableenergysystems/tabid/456/Default.aspx

‘I was delighted to find a local company that could both re-roof my 1930′s home and install solar panels as part of the new roof covering. The work itself was well organised and went very smoothly, including moving my existing Velux window. It came in on budget and the work was finished when agreed, which was wonderful. Registering the solar system has been unproblematic and I’m delighted to be generating some electricity of my own. I’ve been keeping a close eye on my meter to see how much electricity the panels are producing. It’s a good feeling to know that my roof is helping the fight against global warming and I’m reducing my own bills too so it’s a win:win situation. I’ve nothing but praise for D&J Roofing – they have been a great bunch of people to deal with and any queries were sorted out promptly and efficiently.’

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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“Solar PV is not rocket science! It involves good quality solar PV panels and accessories, proper roofing craftsmanship and a good electrician. D & J have supplied me with all of this in a very good manner.

D&J were at no stage pushy and always very co-operative, making things a lot less complicated.

Once my system was connected to the grid it worked straight away and from day one it provides me with an income from the Feed-in-Tariff, which is guaranteed for 25 years!

Since then I track the power generation and income generation with a simple spreadsheet which I keep updated on a daily basis.

There is hardly a better return on investment than with a solar PV system.”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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After on going talks the work was accepted by ACS and we are starting today. Stay posted for the roofing case study with pictures which will be included soon.

Please see the Algerian Embassy here: http://www.algerian-consulate.org.uk/

Chris went to the Dragons with intention of some investment for his business and also some help with the marketing side.

After some arguing from the Dragons Chris finally got an offer he couldn’t refuse. Please see the show again via BBC Iplayer by clicking here:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006vq92

Congratulations on the 120k investment Chris !! Maybe the bankers will start taking SOLAR PV seriously…

Chris went to the Dragons with intention of some investment for his business and also some help with the marketing side.

After some arguing from the Dragons Chris finally got an offer he couldn’t refuse. Please see the show again via BBC Iplayer by clicking here:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006vq92

Congratulations on the 120k investment Chris !! Maybe the bankers will start taking SOLAR PV seriously…

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The launch of the latest Competent Person Scheme to be authorised by Government is already cutting red tape, saving both time and money for property owners and roofing contractors. CompetentRoofer is the first scheme specifically for roofing refurbishment work, and allows competent, vetted professional roofing companies to self-certify on Building Regulations for replacement roofs.

This is another step towards stamping out the ‘cowboys.’

Whether you are a homeowner, private landlord, commercial or industrial owner, all work carried out by the government authorised CompetentRoofer scheme involves special self-certification. This eliminates time consuming local authority building control procedures and, consequently, may save up to £400 for each roof!

The positive implications of CompetentRoofer will help generate an increase in small and large existing roofing improvements, because it represents all-round cost reductions for clients, whilst maintaining high quality workmanship and compliance that is a legal requirement!

Ray Horwood, CBE, chief executive of CompetentRoofer explains: “Roofing companies are inspected prior to joining the CompetentRoofer scheme on their respective roofing disciplines and then allowed to self-authorise only in those disciplines. Members are then regularly inspected at least twice annually.”

“This means that the homeowner or business owner get an ‘all-in-one’ service and do not need building officer approval. The homeowner or building proprietor receives a Building Regulations Control Certificate and the work is automatically registered with the relevant local authority.

“Overall, this is a big step forward in further professionalising the roofing industry, helping the consumer and eliminating cowboy roofers and rogue companies!”

All CompetentRoofer companies receive random work validation inspections and any failures are immediately rectified. A special training course has been developed to increase operative awareness and there is a ‘hot-line’ to report errant companies.

FULL LABC SUPPORT

Local Authority Building Control (LABC) fully supports the introduction of competent person schemes where they assist in delivering building works complying with the Building Regulations.

LABC chief executive, Paul Everall, CBE, points out: “A successful CompetentRoofer scheme will be a real asset to this country and may well be of great assistance when the government comes to implement its Green Deal!

“We are confident that the NFRC scheme limits entrants to those who can clearly demonstrate their competence. This is not just in the physical aspects of refurbishing roofs but also in ensuring that in carrying out the work no other part of the Regulations is breached! Likewise, that the performance of scheme members is regularly monitored.

“CompetentRoofer is a real measure of assurance to the client that the work has not been done by a rogue trader and LABC is committed to working with the government and organisations such as TrustMark, to ensure that the public is properly protected.”

PROOF OF THE PUDDING!

The success of the NFRC CompetentRoofer scheme is already paying dividends in many roofing categories, including thatching.

David French of DJ Roofing, says:

“Frequently we strip off a roof and then have to wait for an inspection before we can carry out any reroofing. This can reduce work continuity, sometimes for as much as half a day of important time!

 

“As a CompetentRoofer, we have undergone all the necessary training, instructions and inspections, so we can now confidently complete the job and self-certify, which means no hold ups!

Media enquiries:

Laura Mason

PR & Marketing Executive

Phone: 0207 448 3187

Email: lauramason@nfrc.co.uk

“We believe that investing in solar PV is better than putting our money in a bank. We’ll get the money we invested back within nine years, and from that point see a regular income for the home for another sixteen years. My utility company (British Gas) will now be making payments to me quarterly, it was all straight forward to organise with them.”

“We gathered several quotes before choosing to go ahead with D & J. What stuck out from the rest was there roofers worked on our roof and there electrician worked on our electrics.”

“D & J were clean, tidy and very efficient. They kept me informed at all stages of the survey/installation. I will and have recommended D & J to my friends, Thank-you”

While we was up on the Webb’s roof there was some pointing to fill in on the ridges/chimney stack and a lot of tiles that needed to be changed. Please see pictures below for full work in progress.

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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The Climate Change Committee announced that the UK should renounce fossil fuels…in favour of nuclear power

By Alan Simpson

The Government’s Climate Change Committee is having its John and Yoko moment. Summoning the world’s press to its bedside, the Committee announced that the UK should renounce fossil fuels…in favour of nuclear power. The report was actually supposed to be about renewable energy. In reality, it turned out to be just a veneer for bringing nuclear back into the game.

While other countries are working out how to shift towards 100% renewable energy systems, the CCC concluded that Britain could not manage to produce more than 30% (or at max 45%) of our energy needs from renewables.

You cannot blame John and Yoko for the decades of war that followed their peace declaration. People may not be as kind to the CCC for failing to be honest about the decades (centuries) of bills that would have to be paid in a new flight into nuclear; especially if expectations are based on the sort of voodoo economics the Committee seems to have relied on.

Perhaps the most useful aspect of the CCC report is that it should force open a long overdue examination of the hidden subsidies that nuclear has needed, just to pretend it was viable. Such a debate might, at least, nudge Britain towards a more equitable approach to energy market rules.

Central to the CCC’s proposals is their belief that new nuclear will deliver electricity at around 5.5p/kW; making it the cheapest, low carbon electricity in the game. It is a proposition based on a phenomenally expensive ‘three card trick’.

Leave the safety issues to one side. Internationally, every new nuclear power station programme faces spiralling economic costs. The PR behind Britain’s ‘nuclear renaissance’ claims is exactly the same as that deployed in the USA by George Bush in 2002. Bush’s ‘nuclear 2010’ programme was to have delivered two new nuclear power stations by 2010, and then one per year for the rest of the decade. Nothing has got beyond the drawing board.

In Flamanville (France) and in Finland, nuclear costs have doubled as delays force the programmes further and further behind schedule. In every case, huge hidden subsidies and inducements have been needed just to keep the show on the road.

If the public had been asked to cover BP’s liabilities in the Gulf of Mexico, there would have been public outrage. BP would have been told, in no uncertain terms, to cover its own liability insurance. It would have been the same for coal, gas or any other energy supplier. Only nuclear gets treated as a special case.

It is the taxpayer who is expected to pick up liabilities (in excess of £1bn), along with the costs of nuclear clear up. Post Cold War, and post Fukushima, the liabilities need to be looked at differently.

Energy economics of the future have a very different shape; and one that, sadly, the Climate Change Committee does not seem to grasp. Last year, North Carolina’s energy market reached an ‘historic cross-over point’. Electricity from photovoltaics was coming in at the same price (16 cents/kW) as nuclear. The projections are that by the end of this decade, PV costs will have fallen to around five cents/kW while nuclear will have risen to almost 30 cents/kW.

Analysis of PV costs in Europe follows the same trend lines. Virtually all countries can expect PV costs to reach ‘grid parity’ – break even point – within the current decade. Done at scale, they will also deliver the massive job growth already enjoyed in Germany.

In the UK, the technical potential of PV alone is that over 30% of current electricity needs could be met by installing it on all south facing roofs of homes, factories, schools and offices. Add to this the potential ‘renewable’ resources of deep-geothermal, tidal stream, wind and wave, and you have the potential for the UK to be a net exporter of renewable energy, not a modest contributor to it.

The trouble with the Climate Change Committee (and with the Government) is that it’s thinking is more rooted in the last century than the current one. It has an essentially corporatist mindset, that looks to prop up today’s energy market cartel. It has little grasp of demand management as a tool to limit growth in energy consumption, and it falls too easily onto the ‘over consumption’ trap. The Committee has no real perspective on the role of decentralised energy systems in defining a different energy future. And it has no recognition of the need to move from permanent subsidies to transitional ones.

This approach was central to the feed-in tariffs (FiT) framework I helped introduce in the Energy Act 2008. It was a modest attempt to follow Germany’s more ambitious approach in how best to move from non-renewable to renewable energy systems.

There is no cost-free path from yesterday to tomorrow. The key is to have a different set of principles that underpin whatever transformation you are asking the taxpayer (or bill-payer) to cough up for. These principles are quite simple –

·        Subsidies have to be transitional (time-limited and diminishing), so that technologies have to eventually pay their own way or die,

·        Taxpayer support should be limited to new technologies rather than established ones,

·        Each technology must cover its own ‘clean up’ costs, within its own operating lifetime.

You cannot, as nuclear has done, construct faux economics based on assumptions that clean-up costs can be spread across so many future generations that you pretend they don’t exist. You cannot use a Carbon Floor Price to offer a new hidden subsidy to existing nuclear when the bulk of its decommissioning costs are still paid for by the public. You cannot pay the research and insurance costs of ‘old energy’ whilst capping or cutting the support for ‘new’.

Apply these tests and there is no ‘nuclear renaissance’. All you are left with is an expensive scam.

Beyond nuclear, however, there is an even bigger challenge. Someone has to tell the Climate Change Committee that feeding the demands of Big Energy is not the way to deliver a secure and sustainable energy future for the UK.  Elsewhere in Europe, cities, regions and whole countries are showing that a more diverse and decentralised approach is possible.

In the UK, less than one third of domestic energy bills come as the wholesale cost of energy itself. The other two thirds come from distribution costs (often paid to the same energy companies). One great advantage of decentralised energy systems is their ability to avoid the bulk of these costs. When people generate their own household (community or commercial) energy needs, it is the retail cost of energy that they avoid. This is a reality that does not seem to have dawned on the CCC in the way it has compared energy costs.

Local and national carbon budgets will, one way or another, become inescapable parts of future energy thinking. Within them, localised generation can be tied far more effectively to demand reduction measures; making us as conscious of the energy we avoid using as of the energy we generate. This thinking is anathema to trans-national energy companies, whose interests (and often survival) are premised on selling increased consumption.

Britainhas to engage in a culture change as well as a technology change in  energy thinking if we want to live sustainably. This will have to engage citizens as well as empower them…in ways the Climate Change Committee has so far failed to grasp. This will not come in through old energy dressed as new, or as one cartel to replace another. We have to be braver and bolder.

As it stands, the CCC has yet to produce any vision that John or Yoko would get out of bed for. As ever, we shall have to do so ourselves.

Alan Simpson , May 2011

Alan was an MP and renewable energy advisor in the previous Labour government. He now works as an independent advisor on energy and climate change.

www.solarpowerportal.co.uk

Barker’s jaw-dropping comments came in direct response to the Solar Trade Association’s (STA) report released last week, which outlined in plain black and white that the Government has got solar so wrong that it risks ruining the country’s solar energy plans for good.

“Historically, the Department of Energy and Climate Change has underestimated the contribution that solar can make,” Barker said. “But solar is now going through an extraordinary stage of development… it’s capable of scaling up and competing with the big boys. It’s not just for enthusiasts. It has potential to be a significant source of energy.

“While I wouldn’t necessarily concur with all the specific recommendations of the [STA] report, there is one clear message that I do agree with: that solar has far more potential than has previously been thought.”

Although we’ve known that Government’s rash moves have been wreaking havoc for months, DECC has until now placed its fingers firmly in its ears and refused to do anything about it. In fact, instead of watching the industry grow at a steady rate utilizing the incentive structure it put in place, it panicked and imposed devastating cuts on an industry that was just getting off the ground.

Why Barker has suddenly started to listen I do not know, and frankly I do not care. The important thing is we’ve got his attention, and we should grab it with both hands.

So, what’s he going to do?

Sadly, although Barker has realized DECC’s horrendous error of judgment, it looks like it may be a case of too little, too late. While the waking has been done and the coffee has been smelled, the feed-in tariff cuts look set to go ahead.

“I’d like to be able to be more generous with the large-scale projects, but I’ve got £860 million from the spending review… so the focus of the current scheme needs to be on the small scale, to get the maximum number of installations. But we now need to think creatively about how we can engage commercial-scale solar as a more important part of the energy mix… we’ve got to find additional pathways – and that means changing the way that solar is perceived in the department,” Barker added.

This tells me that Government has gone too far into the process of changing the way the feed-in tariff is run to turn around and stop things now. Instead, it is faced with having to own up to its mistake, and to try and find a way around it. Already rumours are flying around about ROCs replacing the tariff for large-scale systems and tariff bands being moved to accommodate the bigger installations without jeopardizing the smaller ones – yet no one really knows what will happen. And, although this is hugely positive news for the industry, it doesn’t change the fact that thousands of investors have already walked away from the UK solar industry in fear that they would lose thousands of pounds of their hard-earned money, while others have already suffered that fate.

Fast-track results

I’ve received many a phone call these past weeks from those eagerly anticipating the result of the fast-track feed-in tariff review. Unfortunately, I don’t have much news on that front, other than we are expecting to hear back from Government this week. According to industry calculations DECC needs to announce something soon, otherwise it will run out the time it needs to get the new rates passed through Parliament before the August 1 deadline.

Wrote by Emma Hughes – Solar Power Portal

www.solarpowerportal.co.uk

“Concerned about the rising cost of our energy bills, combined with a desire to do something positive about reducing our carbon footprint we decided that we would look into getting solar panels.”

“We approached D & J and a few other companies for a quotation.  We were very impressed with the information they gave us, the time they spent answering our questions, and their professionalism.  The solar energy report they produced did not overestimate the savings that we would make nor make unrealistic claims about the number of panels our roof could support efficiently.”

“D & J were competitive, had a longstanding reputation and were a local company.  In fact we popped into their show room to view the choice of panels available to us and to see the metering system in action.”

“The installation was very quick and efficient. We are very pleased with the work carried out and still get a thrill when we watch the energy generated on a sunny day!”

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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The Kinsburys already had Solar Thermal installed so we had to fit our panels around that. There wasn’t much room up there with the obstacles we had, but we managed to squeeze 8 panels up there shade free!!!

We are proud to of carried out the first installation of SolarWatt modules in the UK. SolarWatt are a prestigious German manufacturer that produce premium modules perfect for German and UK markets.

To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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We carried out some major roofing repairs while we were doing the solar install, renewing box gutter/lead flashings and installing a loft hatch. The loft hatch was so Mr Smith could get up and monitor his panels and give them a clean from time to time.
To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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Mr and Mrs Dunbar live just outside of Central London in a luxurious little Village called Blackheath. Mr Dunbar is an architect and he designed/built his house to a very high standard. We are very glad Mr and Mrs Dunbar choose us to work on such a beautiful property.

Fortunately the Dunbars had a rear elevation free of shading and out of site from the road. We first planned to fit 10 modules with the space we had available. When we completed the install we could squeeze another 2 modules alongside them. The Dunbars was happy to generate more power so we added 2 more modules the next week.
To see this product fitted, please visit our showroom.

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We decided to turn our office space into a showroom in early 2011. With 2 panels attached to an imitation roof area it really shows you how the panels are fitted to your roof.

We fitted 3 working panels to the flat roof of our yard area and wired the electrical works into the front of our showroom. (see pictures below). This shows us exactly how much we produce from day to day and really shows our customers how Solar PV is wired together.

As you can see below with only 3 panels it is still producing enough electricity to earn us money. We will be adding to those panels in due course.

Please come along to our showroom to see what we have produced so far!!

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Location: East Dulwich, South London

System Size: 0.57 kWp

Panels: 3x Eging EGM 190W

Inverter: 1x Mastervolt Soladin 600

Azimuth: South

Energy produced: 420.19 kWa p/a

Feed in Payment (Year 1): £178.00

Electricity saving (Year 1): £47.00

Net present (over 25 years): £9,987.00

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The design for the Hill’s system is with 2 arrays. The reason for this was because 8 modules face west (on the main pitched roof) and 4 modules facing South (on the flat roof).

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After reaching our 25^th anniversary we have decided to celebrate with the local community, we are having a BBQ and drinks outside of our Showroom this Friday and Saturday (27^th/28^th). We are also re launching our newly refurbished showroom.

Two years ago we decided to get into the renewable energy industry. Since then we have been fitting Solar PV (Photovoltaic) panels/tiles onto roofs in and around the South-East. We have refurbished our showroom to show you exactly how the system works.

If you would like to know more about Solar PV, for example how it works? Or how it would save you money please pop along and speak with our experienced estimators.

We look forward to seeing you all!!

As a result, the future calls for an intelligent energy mix that includes all economically and environmentally feasible solutions. Renewable energies, particularly solar energy, will play an increasingly important role in a future energy mix.

In less than two weeks, sunlight provides the same amount of energy as all existing fossil fuel resources on earth could generate together. Of course, this is pure theory! However, the fact remains that sunlight is an extremely suitable source to cover our energy needs in a sustainable, clean and safe manner.

For years, modern solar technology has consistently developed to use this enormous potential ever better. The direct conversion of sunlight into electrical energy is called photovoltaics (PV). The stronger the sunlight, the more electrical power is generated.

Obviously, there are fewer sunlight hours in the UK than, for example, in the Mediterranean countries. But the total amount of solar radiation in most areas of England and Wales exceeds 900 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year. Taking into consideration that electricity flows faster when temperatures are cold, means that modern solar PV systems also work virtually anywhere in England and Wales.

Solar-generated electricity is not only an aim to contribute actively towards climate protection but also a profitable investment. All of the solar-generated electricity is purchased by the energy supplier at a feed-in tariff that will remain fixed for 25 years.

Calculating with a steady income of a solar PV system, it is a profitable investment that can provide an annual return on investment of up to 10% of the initial investment.

One example: On a south facing roof in London a solar PV system of ten modules, 190 watt each, generates about 1,615kWh per year. The feed-in tariff for such an installation would pay £0.433 per generated kWh. That means an annual income of £700.

A solar PV system designed for a typical British household can actually save around 1 ton of carbon dioxide (CO₂) each year. Considering that a solar PV system lasts for about 40 years, it can save up 40 tons of CO₂. By using white goods between 11am and 2pm, it will also significantly reduce the energy bill.

During daytime a typical solar PV system generates more electricity than a household needs. So any additional solar-generated electricity is automatically exported to the National grid. On the other hand, any additional electricity that is needed (for example at night time when the solar PV system does not work) is automatically imported from the National grid as usual.

These days, going green has its benefits, environmentally and economically. At last, there is good reason why green is the colour of hope!

Oliver Reich

So why has he jumped at the chance to return to the LSA training centre for yet another course? The answer is clear – this is no ordinary course.  The new heritage specialist apprenticeship programme (SAP) is aimed at leadworkers with an existing NVQ Level 2 in lead, or alternatively, individuals who can provide knowledge and competence at Level 2.

The course provides a step-bystep approach delivered in modules, combined with on-the-job work experience and assessment.  It also opens the doors to the opportunity of working on older and, importantly to Matthew, more interesting buildings.

Born into a roofing family, Matthew has been interested in the business from an early age and learnt slating and tiling as soon as he left school. However, his passion was always in leadwork and he trained with Nigel Johnston some ten years ago, to learn the basics in lead welding and bossing.

“When I heard about the new heritage SAP I was keen to enrol, as the training will further my skills and confidence to work on bigger and better jobs,” he explained.

He is finding the course very intense, but the satisfaction at completing more complicated tasks is extremely rewarding.
“When you have taken a flat piece of lead and turned it into a ball without any creases, you have to give yourself a pat on the back,” he said.

Matthew works with his parents and around 20 other colleagues for D & J Roofing, based in south east London, and says that competition for heritage-type work is keen.

“The NVQ Level 3 qualifi cation will really help us to show a competitive edge when going for those soughtafter jobs,” he said.

CLICK HERE to see the November 2010 issue of ‘The Leader’ for an article on heritage lead worker Matthew French.

Today’s consultation comes after the comprehensive review of feed-in tariffs was originally announced on February 7^th. At the time the Minister of State Greg Barker said the fast-track aspect of the review would show “fast-track consideration of large-scale solar projects (over 50kW) with a view to making any resulting changes to tariffs as soon as practical, subject to consultation and Parliamentary scrutiny as required by the Energy Act 2008.”

Since then the solar PV industry in the UK has joined forces to fight this decision tooth and nail, yet it seems the attempts may have been futile. The document published today outlines the following proposed new tariffs:

For large PV installations:

>50kW – ≤150kW: 19p/kWh

>150kW – ≤250kW: 15p/kWh

>250kW – ≤5MW: 8.5p/kWh

The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) fast-track announcement does not affect residential installations.

Barker justifies the proposed cuts by saying, “In these financially challenging times, it is even more important that we get the balance of the scheme right. The projections for take up of FiTs published by the previous government failed to anticipate any large or small scale non-domestic solar PV installations until 2013.”

“These projections have clearly proved to be flawed. Current market indications are that a rapid increase in the number of larger solar installations entering the scheme could distort funding for smaller and domestic scale installations as well as other technologies.”

“We must act now to ensure that the scheme continues to deliver and we are able to achieve both our Spending Review commitment to improving the efficiency of the scheme, which will deliver £40million of savings (around 10%) in 2014/15, as well as ensuring that the benefits of a faster fall in technology costs are shared as widely as possible rather than captured in higher returns for a small number of individual investors.”

The DECC will now seek views on the proposed tariffs until May 6^th 2011. Any changes agreed will only affect new entrants to the FiT scheme; the Government will not act retrospectively. It is proposed that any changes take effect from August 1^st 2011, subject to the outcome of this consultation and Parliamentary scrutiny.

The Government is also seeking views on the scope of the comprehensive review by April 12^th 2011.

It goes without saying that the roof over your head is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting you and your possessions and assets from the elements. Whether you need a repair, a new roof, or are replacing an existing roof, using a NFRC member contractor to carry out the work will give you peace of mind, as well as a weatherproof roof.

High standards

To ensure the NFRC contractors offer the highest standards in workmanship and customer service, all member contractors are rigorously vetted before joining NFRC and every three years there after.

A contractor must meet the following vetting criteria:

- A satisfactory trading record, including financial stability

- Inspections of past contracts to verify quality craft skills and technical competence

- Satisfactory public, employers’ and third party insurance cover

- Compliance with Health and Safety Legislation

- Compliance with the NFRC Code of Practice; British and European Standards and Codes of Practice; and the TrustMark scheme (for domestic contractors only).

A fair price

Once the member contractor has investigated the technical aspects of the job, considered and agreed to the possible courses of action, you will receive a clearly written quote or estimate, giving a fair price for the planned work clearly showing whether VAT is applicable, and setting out the conditions of the contract. NFRC member contractors will offer customers technical and contractual advice in plain English.

TrustMark

The nationwide Government endorsed TrustMark scheme helps the general public find reputable tradesmen to carry out work on their home. TrustMark recognises NFRC as a reputable trade association, and all NFRC member contractors are TrustMark accredited by passing NFRC’s stringent vetting process.

Technical support

Free technical advice is available from NFRC to customers of NFRC member contractors. NFRC supplements this service with a comprehensive series of technical publications to support both member contractors and their customers.

Our guarantee

For added peace of mind, NFRC member contractors can offer a series of custom-made insurance backed guarantee packages. These range from basic solvency cover, to more comprehensive policies covering both workmanship and materials for up to ten years.

A job well done does not only mean good workmanship. Materials are also a key factor and NFRC Associate members (roofing industry manufacturers and suppliers) are encouraged to support NFRC’s insurance backed guarantee schemes. A contractor who uses an Associate Member’s products can offer the client comprehensive insurance policies. These remain valid for the full period of the guarantee even if the contractor or materials supplier goes out of business. The benefits are also automatically transferred to a new owner of the property.

What if something goes wrong?

In the event of a dispute between a NFRC member contractor and their customer, a free and impartial conciliation and arbitration procedure operates to ensure that any problems are dealt with quickly and fairly. Complaints are investigated through the Secretary of the NFRC region in which the work was carried out. A member who is proven not to abide by the findings of an arbitration procedure may lose their status as a registered NFRC member contractor. Using this service does not preclude either party from exercising their legal rights.

Information from www.nfrc.co.uk

High standards

To ensure the NFRC contractors offer the highest standards in workmanship and customer service, all member contractors are rigorously vetted before joining NFRC and every three years there after.

A contractor must meet the following vetting criteria:

- A satisfactory trading record, including financial stability

- Inspections of past contracts to verify quality craft skills and technical competence

- Satisfactory public, employers’ and third party insurance cover

- Compliance with Health and Safety Legislation

- Compliance with the NFRC Code of Practice; British and European Standards and Codes of Practice; and the TrustMark scheme (for domestic contractors only).

A fair price

Once the member contractor has investigated the technical aspects of the job, considered and agreed to the possible courses of action, you will receive a clearly written quote or estimate, giving a fair price for the planned work clearly showing whether VAT is applicable, and setting out the conditions of the contract. NFRC member contractors will offer customers technical and contractual advice in plain English.

TrustMark

The nationwide Government endorsed TrustMark scheme helps the general public find reputable tradesmen to carry out work on their home. TrustMark recognises NFRC as a reputable trade association, and all NFRC member contractors are TrustMark accredited by passing NFRC’s stringent vetting process.

Technical support

Free technical advice is available from NFRC to customers of NFRC member contractors. NFRC supplements this service with a comprehensive series of technical publications to support both member contractors and their customers.

Our guarantee

For added peace of mind, NFRC member contractors can offer a series of custom-made insurance backed guarantee packages. These range from basic solvency cover, to more comprehensive policies covering both workmanship and materials for up to ten years.

A job well done does not only mean good workmanship. Materials are also a key factor and NFRC Associate members (roofing industry manufacturers and suppliers) are encouraged to support NFRC’s insurance backed guarantee schemes. A contractor who uses an Associate Member’s products can offer the client comprehensive insurance policies. These remain valid for the full period of the guarantee even if the contractor or materials supplier goes out of business. The benefits are also automatically transferred to a new owner of the property.

What if something goes wrong?

In the event of a dispute between a NFRC member contractor and their customer, a free and impartial conciliation and arbitration procedure operates to ensure that any problems are dealt with quickly and fairly. Complaints are investigated through the Secretary of the NFRC region in which the work was carried out. A member who is proven not to abide by the findings of an arbitration procedure may lose their status as a registered NFRC member contractor. Using this service does not preclude either party from exercising their legal rights.

Information from www.nfrc.co.uk

The new figures for installations up to 4kW have risen from 41.3p to 43.3p.

The feed-in tariff (FiT) scheme first went live on April 1, 2010. The UK Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) hoped the scheme would encourage the use of additional low-carbon electricity generation, particularly by organisations, businesses, communities and individuals not traditionally engaged in the electricity market.

No further details have been announced on how the tariff rates will be effected by the recently announced FiT review.

Information by Solar Power Portal.

Information from the Solar Power Portal

To be known as the CompetentRoofer scheme, it means that roofing companies which are registered can self-certify for Building Regulations on most roofing refurbishment work.

NFRC’s chief executive, Ray Horwood, explained: “A CompetentRoofer scheme has been the long-term aspiration of our members. In particular, it will endorse their capabilities of best practice, diligence and expertise in the face of the ongoing threat from ‘cowboy’ operators.

“We believe that implementation of the scheme will significantly level the playing field, ensuring that roofing companies can continually uphold standards while gaining business and best serving the public and other customers.”

All roofing companies will be able to apply whether or not they are NFRC members, but they will be subject to inspections in the roofing disciplines in which they operate.

Under the terms of the CompetentRoofer scheme on completion of the roofing work a representative of the roofing company will sign a document endorsing that work has been carried out in full compliance with the Building Regulations.

Consequently the homeowner or building owner will not be required to pay for an inspection and will be issued with a certificate of compliance that will also go to the appropriate local authority building control department.

Ray added: “As part of a monitoring scheme, NFRC will operate a hotline, allowing roofing companies to report incidents where they believe that a building owner or company is failing to obey Building Regulations. In such circumstances, NFRC will pass on the relevant information for further action.”

www.nfrc.co.uk

Over 2000 companies have now signed up to the Scheme’s Consumer Code. During 2010, 3 companies were expelled from the Scheme for non-compliance. 2 companies were suspended but have now been reinstated for a probationary period after acting to correct their non-compliances and giving compliance undertakings.

A further 3 companies resigned from the scheme prior to the conclusion of their non-compliance proceedings.

Dave Sowden, Chief Executive, Micropower Council, welcomed the news:

“In any industry, particularly one growing so quickly, there will be those that chance their arm by bending the rules, so we applaud the REAL Assurance Scheme’s tough action to maintain standards in this rapidly growing industry.”

“Over 1500 new companies entered the industry in 2010 and with a third of companies subjected to an in-depth audit every year, these very low rates of non-compliance give clear evidence that the overwhelming majority of companies in the sector are treating customers properly and professionally. This is marks an excellent start to a rapid phase of recession-busting growth for the UK’s Microgeneration sector.”

Notes:

The REAL Assurance Scheme ensures that consumers wishing to install a small-scale sustainable heat or power generating system in their homes have the necessary confidence and service standards they need to make an informed choice. The Consumer Code is backed by the Office of Fair Trading under their Consumer Codes Approval Scheme, and dovetails with the MCS certification for installers and products.

1. Further information can be found at www.realassurance.org.uk/

2. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme certificates microgeneration technologies used to produce electricity and heat from renewable sources.  www.microgenerationcertification.org/. MCS certification, including membership of the REAL Assurance Scheme, is required for any installation to be eligible to receive the government-backed Feed-in-tariff, which pays a premium price for electricity generated from small-scale sustainable sources.

3. The term “Microgeneration” broadly refers to a range of technologies that non-expert users can use to produce heat or power from renewable or low carbon sources – the next step beyond cost effective energy efficiency measures such as insulation.

4. The government’s own figures suggest that up to 7 million homes could have some form of microgeneration installed by 2020, making it an important contributor to EU targets for renewable energy and reductions in CO2 emissions.

5. The Micropower Council represents companies, trade associations and others with an interest in developing a mass market for the microgeneration sector. It is the only body representing the full cross-section of microgeneration technologies. www.micropower.co.uk

Cornwall Council has reportedly submitted a planning application to its own officers, regardless of the fact that the Government has scared many investors away from UK-based solar parks by threatening to cut the incentive for large-scale solar altogether.

Energy and Climate Change Secretary Chris Huhne last week ordered a review of the FiT subsidy, over concerns it had been gate-crashed by large companies looking to cash in at the expense of schools and communities.

Information from The Power Portal

14 February 2011 

Free independent online marketplace, Comcero (www.comcero.com), announces its partnership with The Confederation of Roofing Contractors (CORC)

Comcero® announces today a new partnership with The Confederation of Roofing Contractors (CORC). CORC is the premier roofing trade association in the UK whose members are considered the ‘best in the roofing business’.  CORC is committed to providing clients with a quality roofing service and protecting the reputation of its members.

Together Comcero and CORC aim to support the cause for the delivery of excellent services and provide a route to market for reputable roofers and protection for discerning purchasers of roofing services.

Bal Mattu, Chief Exec for Comcero commented “We are looking forward to working together in the service of the public and this highly skilled profession. We are focused on developing a very successful ecosystem for the roofing industry.”

Allan Buchan, Chief Exec for CORC commented “We really like the value proposition presented by Comcero and have recommended its adoption to all our members.”

Comcero is the Free independent local marketplace committed to encouraging transparent, ethical business and to stamping out rogue trading.

For more information visit www.comcero.com

Denise commented “In December 2010, we suffered adverse weather conditions as D&J Roofing were about to start our roof. When the snow cleared up they started and finished my roof within the week. The installation went very smoothly, with no delays. The job was finished by 2 very polite and hard working fitters; we are very pleased with the fantastic workmanship they produced.”

Denise informed us that “The building control officer was extremely impressed with our workmanship” then added “since our re roof we have become quite popular with the neighbours, with some nice comments from them all”

In the summer of 2009, D & J Roofing re-roofed Mr and Mrs Pearce’s property. Their roof was last renewed over 35 years ago and in a sorry state.

Mrs Pearce can now sleep easily after some stressful nights of rain water leaking through her roof. Mrs Pearce said “Fast, efficient, good job! No problems, no disturbance and looks great! I can now sleep in bed at night without the worry of rain water coming in and spoiling the inside of my house.”

The Feed in Tariff obliges the traditional energy companies (known in this context as FIT Licensees) to pay the owner of a solar PV system above market rates for the clean energy that they generate and also guarantees an additional price (per kWh) for the energy that they sell/export.

The solar PV Feed in Tariff has been designed to recognised the financial commitment of the solar PV system owner through a guaranteed repayment on their investment; in most cases a healthy return over and above what the system cost to install and in recognition of the contribution made to lowering the country’s overall CO2 emissions.

The solar PV Feed in Tariff is available for everyone including homeowners, businesses, schools and landowners. Income from the Feed in Tariff is not subject to tax for homeowners.

Essentially the Clean Energy Cashback Scheme or FIT comprises of two tariffs, the first is the Generation Tariff.

The Generation Tariff

The solar PV generation tariff guarantees a fixed payment (usually paid quarterly) based on the size of solar PV system that is installed and the amount of power (measured in kWh) that the solar PV system is capable of generating.

Payments are guaranteed for 25 years and payment rates are index linked to inflation (using the Retail Price Index). To kick start the scheme there are higher rates payable for systems installed before the end of March 2012.

Payment rates are fixed based on the installation date, systems installed before 31^st march 2012 will be fixed at the highest rate for the full 25 years. The rates are outlined in the table below:

Solar PV Feed in Tariff Generation Rates

* A retrofit installation is defined as any installation fitted to or wired to an existing building

** A stand alone system is defined as not attached to or wired to a building in order to provide electricity to that building. e.g. solar energy farms wired directly into the grid.

The Export Tariff

The solar PV export tariff applies to the proportion of clean energy that is exported (i.e. sold via the grid for others to use) and is basically a guaranteed ‘floor price’ or minimum price, set at 3p per kWh. The export rate is guaranteed for 25 years and also index linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI).

The export tariff is an opt-in arrangement which means that the energy generator also has the option to sell this energy more profitably on the open market. The export tariff is not applicable for off-grid PV systems.

Eligible Solar PV systems

The solar Feed in Tariff can be applied to any type of solar PV system including of-grid PV systems (the generation tariff) and Building Integrated PV (BIPV) systems providing that both the solar equipment and the solar installer have been inspected and accredited to UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) standards.

How to Register a System

OFGEM administers a Feed in Tariff register which holds the details of all registered generators. System registration is carried out via the FIT Licensees (the power companies).

Once an eligible solar PV system has been installed you will be able to register your system. FIT payments are made by the FIT Licensees.

Key Points:

- The Generation Tariff is based on the amount of power (measured in kWh) a system generates, this power does not need to be sold, you can use the free electricity you generate and export any excesses independently of the FIT.

- FIT rates are set based on the installation date e.g. if your installation is carried out before 31^st March 2012 the highest rate will be locked in for the next 25 years.

- The power you export/sell via the grid can also be sold for a profit in addition to the Generation Tariff entitlement. Although the scheme does guarantee an index linked floor price for exported clean energy of 3p per kWh.

- The Feed in Tariff is applicable to all types of solar PV system but both the equipment and the installer must be certified to UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) standards.

- FIT payments are index linked to inflation, this means that if inflation rises then so will the FIT payment.

- FIT payments are non-taxable for homeowners.

- FIT payments and rates are guaranteed for 25 years, set at the time in which the PV system was installed.

- Different rates are payable for smaller systems fitted to existing buildings (higher) than those incorporated into new builds (lower). FIT registration and FIT payments are handled by FIT Licensees (the participating power companies).

The Future

Where solar PV Feed in Tariffs (FITs) have already been successfully implemented in countries such as Germany and Spain. After the first round of incentives had finished, after review the tariffs stayed in place but with less beneficial rates and terms for new applicants.

The UK Feed in Tariff rates and terms are scheduled for review in early 2013, it is our belief that based on the depreciating nature of what has already been introduced and the experiences of Germany and Spain that both the terms and the payment rates of any future tariffs will be less beneficial than those available before 2013.

Our Two Pence – Get Prepared

Before a system is installed have a good idea of which energy company you will use to handle the FIT registration. Also remember you will be buying electricity as well as selling.

- Have FIT application forms, terms, conditions and contracts ready for review at the system design stage. Work with your installer to ensure that the FIT application is right first time, paperwork is accurate and complete and the benefits of the FITS are maximised.

- Don’t underestimate the export capabilities of your system; it is widely believed that electricity prices will rise significantly over time. The more energy efficient you are the more energy you will be able to export.

- Look at your electricity usage in terms of times of the day, once installed it’s very easy to forget about your mini power station quietly pumping out free electricity during the day.

In the current economic climate the ability to earn extra income, become self-sufficient and reduce your carbon footprint and energy bills could appear to be a contradiction in terms. Surely installing solar panels, for example, on the roof of your house is going to cost, not make money?

This is where the government’s Feed-In Tariffs (FITs) are designed to make it worth your while to produce renewable electricity.

Essentially the FIT system is designed as an incentive for energy producers to move away from conventional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.

Essentially, it is government legislation which guarantees a fixed, premium rate for renewable electricity fed into the national grid. The power companies are obliged by government legislation to buy the renewable electricity, with additional costs passed onto the customers.

As many as half of Britain’s homes could earn around £600 a year from roof top solar panels and some as much as £1000, according to Britain’s biggest energy supplier, British Gas.

Research carried out by the company suggests that over 12m households have roofs that could benefit from solar panels, which use photovoltaic (PV) cells to capture and convert the sun’s energy into electricity, and could produce enough electricity for up to half their household needs.

The UK is on course to meet its 2020 renewables target. A new report from the National Grid has published these exciting findings and statistics on the proposed uptake of microgeneration, with people producing their own power using technology such as solar panels.

A capacity of 31,950 megawatts of existing and proposed renewable energy generation will be connected over the next ten years. Around 4,950 megawatts of renewable generation capacity is already connected to the transmission network, with proposed projects this year totalling a further 27,000 megawatts.

This means there would be enough to power more than 20m homes and would surpass the 29,000 megawatts estimated by the National Grid that would be needed to meet the 2020 target of 15% of the country’s total energy demand through renewable energy.

However, the report cautions that the figures are only a step in the right direction and a complete reform of the market is the only way to ensure the right conditions for investment in future projects.

But if Solar PV panels turn the sun’s abundant, clean energy into electricity that you can use for free in your home, then by installing solar panels you can significantly reduce your electricity bill and even generate a worthwhile income thanks to the FIT scheme.

And if you buy a solar PV system you will be paid for all the electricity you generate, whether you use it yourself or sell any excess to the National Grid. For a typical household installing a 4kwp system the annual savings and income can be worth well over £1,700.

Ecobuild’s new home at ExCeL means that getting around the event will be much easier, with exhibitors located in technology zones on the exhibition floor, and relevant seminars and attractions taking place nearby.

D and J roofing / London and Kent Solar are situated on stand N1962 (North Hall). We are exhibiting on the 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd March. You are all very welcome.

Click here www.ecobuild.co.uk to get free tickets to this year’s exhibition.

More information can be found here

Click here for D&J Roofing’s stand for this years ecobuild

Green roofs are becoming an increasingly popular method of finishing flat or low pitched roofs.

Apart from looking good in both rural and urban environments, they provide tangible benefits for owners of the building, for the environment and for wildlife.

The combination of plants and soil on the roof’s surface can substantially increase the life expectancy of the roof’s waterproofing membrane by protecting it from UV degradation and the extremes of climatic conditions.

Planting is a very effective method of insulation which reduces energy bills and carbon dioxide emissions. It can also improve sound insulation by as much as 8 dB compared with a conventional roof system and is particularly valuable in areas of high noise pollution.
A green roof reduces rainwater run off which helps to prevent localised flooding and evaporation lowers the building’s temperature. Additional green space and absorption of airborne pollutants provide a further boon for nature.

Green roof systems are no longer prohibitively expensive as a new generation of modular systems has been developed specifically for large roofing areas.

Suitable for extensive and semi-extensive applications, they are made up of 0.5 metre square module trays. The substrate consists of egg-box shaped cells, which overlap and slot together to provide a seamless finish and provide plant drainage.

The planting usually comprises sedum or a mix of sedum, wildflowers and natural grasses that are indigenous to the locality.

The module trays are pre-grown by a professional nursery over a three to nine-month period and supplied as fully-established units which means the plants are strong, robust and well anchored into the medium.

Strong plants mean less shock, less risk of wind uplift or erosion in those first few critical months after installation.

The modules are installed over a geotextile filter fabric, which sits on top of the waterproofing.

The weight of the system and the clever interlocking cells mean no fixings are required for the modules, so the membrane stays watertight.

by Steve Cleminson