List of companies on RHI scheme published

By David Hunter

The Department for the Economy has released names of firms which received more than £5,000 in subsidies from the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme.

Information only covers about half of those which received payments but does outline the level of payout. 

People who applied for RHI payments as individuals, have not been named and will be assessed on a case by case basis.

A judge ruled earlier this month that publishing the company names was in the public interest. 

He also said it would help prevent abuse of the scheme which paid out more in subsidies than than the cost of fuel, meaning people could earn money for burning more.

You can see the full list here.

A Renewable Heat Association of Northern Ireland spokesperson said: "The Renewable Heat Association hopes that this will not lead to an assumption by the public or the media that the participants are acting improperly in any way, as the simple publication of names is, in no way, evidence of wrongdoing.

"Participants of the Renewable Heat Incentive entered a scheme legitimately which was designed and promoted by the Government in Northern Ireland."