Bell announces extension to RHI closure date

Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister, Jonathan Bell has announced that the domestic and non domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) schemes will remain open until 29 February.

If legislation is approved by the Assembly on Monday, the earliest possible date for closure would have been midnight on Tuesday, 16 February.

Jonathan Bell said: “I have listened carefully to the concerns expressed in relation to both the non domestic and domestic RHI schemes and I fully appreciate that closure presents considerable difficulties for those who have invested in new technology and are in the midst of preparing for application.

“Having taken those concerns on board, rather than close the schemes to new applications on the earliest possible date, I am proposing that, pending Assembly approval, both schemes remain open for a further two weeks until 29 February.”

The Minister added: “My Department will be carrying out a comprehensive review and audit, to ensure that the operation of the schemes is in compliance with the scheme requirements and the underpinning legislation.”