Renewable energy subsidies - DME

The Department of Minerals and Energy (DME) first launched a programme provide grants to renewable energy projects in 2005-06, continuing through to 2008. Projects must have a minimum output of 1 MW (or an equivalent amount in the annual production of liquid fuels). The Renewable Energy Finance and Subsidy Office (REFSO) was set up within the DME to handle the programme. REFSO manages various renewable energy subsidies, from both national and international sources, and provides advice to developers and other stakeholders on renewable energy finance and subsidies. The type of financing options available to developers include: grants for feasibility studies; long- and short-term finance; export credits and soft loans; equity or loans, and; purchase of carbon emission reduction credits.