Feed-in tariff for Wind Power: Quota can now be reserved

Since 30 June 2014 wind power producers have the possibility to reserve a share from the total quota of 2,500 MVA for a specific wind park project under development. This Amendment to the Act on Production Subsidy for Electricity Produced by Renewable Sources (1396/2010) was introduced to mitigate some of the uncertainties investors may face in the long-term planning of wind parks.

The decision reserving a sufficient quota for a specific wind park project may be applied for after the building permits for the turbines have gained legal force and a binding grid connection agreement with the relevant operator is in place. A positive decision means that the specific wind park will be accepted into the 2,500 MVA scheme with first priority in relation to projects that have not been granted a respective quota decision.

The decision is granted by the Energy Authority and it is binding for two years, but no longer than until 30 June 2020. The final approval application has to be filed before the quota reservation expires. The quota reservation is granted for a specific wind park and may not be used for a different project. However, the decision may be transferred to another operator if, for instance, the project is acquired by another entity. Furthermore, the decision enables the wind park to be constructed in stages.

The Energy Authority is currently updating the electronic production subsidy system (SATU) so that applications can be filed through the system. In the meantime, wind energy producers can file a notification with the Energy Authority in order to secure priority for the application process.