259. For many households and smaller companies, upfront costs for installing renewable technologies like solar might also prove to be a barrier. Government needs to ensure that these consumers have access to low-cost finance and are aware of the support measures available. This includes the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) for small installations as well as tax benefits such as 0% VAT on solar panels.
260. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) involved in the renewable sector may also require specific support and guidance. Some stakeholders highlighted that the Government could do more to support SMEs. RenewableUK for example pointed out that "many SMEs don't have a network to establish 'local partnerships' or the scale to create foreign subsidiaries,"217 calling for increased resource for DIT to help SMEs sell their products and services to export markets.
261. Government will also need to ensure that the regulatory framework enables consumers and businesses to profit, for example from any surplus energy they produce, and allow for new, innovative business models. Some examples of how consumers could benefit from different technologies and new types of services are set out in Pillars 4 and 5.
262. This also includes paving the way and providing practical guidance on potential community benefits to communities. Organisations like National Grid stressed that "it is important to recognise the vital role of communities in hosting energy infrastructure for the benefit of the wider society",218 welcoming government's forthcoming consultation on community benefits. They highlighted that currently "significant community benefits cannot be provided in the current regulatory regime due to the lack of a clear policy requirement and the associated regulatory funding".219 This topic is also covered in Pillar 4.