Feed-in Tariffs: a policy solution for renewable energy

Feed-in tariff (FIT) laws have proved the most effective approach for increasing and accelerating the deployment of renewables in the electricity sector. The switch to renewable energy can solve the current problems of climate change, energy security and energy dependency.

Features of a good FIT law
We outline the essential features of a good FIT law, and give you the opportunity to draft the basic elements of a proposed law.

According to calculations of EREC and Greenpeace renewable energy resources could theoretically supply about 3,000 times our current global energy needs. Renewable energy is the fastest-growing sector in global power production and reached an estimated 280 gigawatts (GW) worldwide in 2007, an increase of 75 % over 2004.

Tackling climate change means rapidly changing the way we generate and use energy. We can only achieve this with an effective policy framework for promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency. FITs are a crucial element of any such framework. The FIT law places a legal obligation on utilities to buy electricity from renewable sources at a premium rate. They provide economic benefits as well – in 2008, Germany’s renewable energy industry had a turnover of 24.6 bn euros and employed 280,000 people.

This site aims to help users around the world to introduce or improve FIT laws in their country or region. In its Features of a good FT law section you can design your own FIT law.  Moreover you may Country- and region-specific information on FIT laws in over 50 jurisdictions worldwide. For additional information and conatcts, please visit the FIT Expert Roster and News Group section of this site.