By Kari Williamson

The temporary measure affects all new applications, but not those already receiving payments or those in a registry of systems for pre-allocations.

The Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Trade (MITyC) has issued a statement saying: “It is intended to temporarilysuspend payment systems which entails costs which are too high for the electricity system and lead to a continuously rising tariff deficit.

“This measure will not threaten the security of the supply compliance with the European Union's renewable energy targets.”

The decision was taken last week by Spain's ruling Popular Party, which came to power in November 2011.