THE Department for the Economy has appointed of energy expert Andrew Buglass to consider the issue of hardship for participants in the non-domestic RHI scheme.
It follows a summer evidence process to establish the nature of financial hardship as a result of changes in the RHI tariffs
The department said while the majority of the 78 respondents to the ‘call for evidence’ claimed they face hardship as a result of the tariff changes, it stated that only a minority submitted “sufficient supporting evidence” of their circumstances.
“Many indicated a preference to instead deal directly with the independent person or panel that would consider the issue,” it said yesterday.
Mr Buglass is described as an independent consultant with significant experience advising on energy schemes. He will engage with participants to consider and seek evidence of hardship suffered by businesses as a result of participation in the non-domestic RHI scheme.
His brief includes developing a relevant definition of hardship, investigating its presence as a result of RHI participation, and making recommendations to the department on any appropriate course of action. He intends to report to the department before the end of the year.
