DECC has closed a loophole in rules for its renewable energy subsidy to stop large-scale projects sucking up funds intended for smaller ones. The Feed in Tariffs (FiTs) offer subsidies to renewable projects like solar installations.

Under the technical loophole, if you had a solar farm under 50KW and were getting the higher FiTs rate, you could have extended the farm while keeping the same tariff. That loophole is now closed after an amendment order was put forward in Parliament on Wednesday.

Energy Minister Greg Barker said: “We have read and carefully considered all responses to the consultation but I remain convinced of the need to take urgent action to close this technical loophole to ensure that money is protected for householders, small businesses and communities. The new rules on extensions will come into effect on 18th October 2011.”