SW microgeneration potential assessment

Scope of assessment

The Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) assessment methodology requires assessment of the following technologies:

• solar water heating (SWH)
• solar photovoltaic (PV)
• ground source heat pumps (GSHP)
• air source heat pumps (ASHP)

The opportunities assessment is based on the following criteria:

• the number of suitable existing and new domestic, commercial & industrial roofs (solar)
• the number of existing and new domestic and commercial buildings (heat pumps)
• both categories employ standard average system capacities as the method for calculating generation potential.

Full details of this approach is available in the Jan 2010 DECC report Renewable and Low-carbon Energy Capacity Methodology for the English regions.

Refining the assessment

Regen SW has contracted AEA to undertake an assessment of microgeneration potential in the south west using the DECC methodology.

In addition we are seeking to develop an additional methodology that will produce a more robust spatial assessment of microgeneration potential at the local level, building on the regional focus of the DECC approach. The objective is to produce a framework that will enable local authorities to undertake intelligent assessment in support of their Local Development Frameworks and wider planning policy.

Accessing the GIS data

Regen SW has commissioned this work with the GIS layers and supporting data to be made available by October. DECC’s resource assessment methodology includes a basic assessment of the potential for microgeneration based on numbers and orientation of roofs and buildings.

Local authorities wishing to obtain the GIS layers for their own use will need to produce signed confirmation that they hold appropriate licenses. Local authorities will need to pay an administrative charge of £550 to receive the data in their preferred format. This will entitle the user to the transfer of all available data layers from the south west heat map and resource assessments.

For more information please to email Josie Ashe.