Any generator can be Acredited with Ofgem if their turbine is eligible under the criteria detailed in the Order or they can ask an intermediary / agent to do this for them. This is an online application.
A generator can decide to take the time and effort to fill out the “Application for Accreditation Questionnaire for Generators” and Ofgem will progress the application free of charge. If a generator chooses to use an intermediary to complete the questionnaire and progress the application with Ofgem as an “Agent” for that Generator then the intermediary / agent will charge an administration fee from £85. However, this charge will only be made if Ofgem accepts the application
The questionnaire and associated guidance documents can be found on Ofgem's web site at:
http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/
Q. What is the process for application to Ofgem?
In order to qualify for accreditation a questionnaire must be completed this is now an online application.http://www.ofgem.gov.uk/
Ofgem require detailed information on the metering of the output from the site which includes the following:
o Details of the meter type,
o Whether the meter conforms to metering standards, and if so what standard,
o The accuracy level of the meter, and
o A meter serial or identifier number.
The meter reading the output from the renewable plant must be one that is certified by Ofgem. A list of all meters certified by Ofgem can be found on the Ofgem website at:
www.ofgem.gov.uk
Q. What is the process for getting a generator accredited for ROCs by Intermediary?
If a generator chooses to progress an application for accreditation under the Order via intermediary rather than by himself/herself the following process will occur:
To establish if the generator is eligible for accreditation with Ofgem, the intermediary completes the accreditation form on behalf of the owner of the renewable generation. Certain site specific information is needed for the application but they liase with the generator to make sure this is all accurate and complete.
The next step, as owner is to sign a declaration, which is on the accreditation form, then write and sign a letter that Ofgem require, informing them that you have instructed an agent to act on your behalf.
The owner of the generator / wind turbine will receive a letter from Ofgem when the site has been accredited providing a personal “Accreditation Number”
Q. What happens if I consume all the electricity I Produce? / I am Not grid connected?
It does not matter if you consume all or part of the electricity produced. The electricity generated, classified as “eligible own use”, is potentially eligible for ROCs, if it is used in any one or all of the following ways:
1. All or part of the electricity generated is exported to the Grid,
2. All or part of the electricity is used by the operator of the plant for their own use on site. This may be for supplying their home, farm or a factory or warehouse, or
3. The electricity is supplied via a private network to a third party on the generators site; this may be a person who rents a property on the land such as a house or farm.
An agreement between the turbine owner and the electricity supplier such as a “buy and sell back” may need to be put in place in order for the generator to qualify for ROC accreditation.