A support network has been set up to help SME installers of renewable energies in Wales.

The Welsh Microgen Network – launched by the Welsh Assembly's Environment Minister Jane Davidson and managed by the Energy Saving Trust – includes interest-free loans and practical advice to help installers through the industry certification process.

Since the loan section's launch in October, seven installers have received funding with more applications pending.

Minister Davidson said: "I want to make sure that Wales gets the best possible outcome from our transition to a low-carbon economy. To achieve this, we have to make it as easy as possible for Welsh businesses to make the most of the opportunities associated with renewable energy."

The assembly hopes eligible installers will use the network to "highlight any issues that they feel might be holding them back".

Davidson added: "We are genuinely interested in what the network has to say about their experiences of the developing industry and are keen to factor the wishes and concerns of the sector into the development of our policy."

For more information on how to benefit from the scheme, email Louise Morris at louise.morris@est.org.uk.