MCS certification is essential for solar PV installations in the UK, but why does it matter so much? In this article, we explore the importance of this certification, how it affects the quality and design of your solar array, and the risks of not obtaining it.
Every trade industry has its regulators: Gas Safe for gas engineers, NICEIC for electricians, and MCS for the renewable energy sector.
Interestingly, of these three, only Gas Safe registration is a legal requirement.
Electricians can operate if they self-certify as competent persons, and similarly, anyone who feels competent can install solar PV systems or home batteries without any formal accreditation.
So, what exactly is MCS, why is it optional to be regulated by them, and why should you consider using an MCS-accredited installer for your solar PV or home battery project?
Let's explore these questions to understand the importance of MCS accreditation in ensuring quality and reliability in the renewable energy industry.
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Let's start with the regulator, who are MCS?
MCS, or the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, was established in 2007 and has seen considerable growth alongside the recent surge in the Solar PV and Battery Storage market.
MCS is structured around three main components:
1. Membership:
MCS has established rigorous standards and principles for membership. The process to become a member is comprehensive, typically taking between six to nine months, and involves assessments conducted by an approved body. This ensures that all members meet a high level of quality and expertise.
2. MID (MCS Installation Database):
This is the database of approved MCS products, such as solar panels and batteries. Each listed product has been thoroughly tested and meets the stringent requirements set out by MCS, ensuring reliability and performance.
3. Certification:
Once an MCS-approved member installs a technology, MCS issues a certification to the homeowner.
This certification not only assures the quality of the installation but also is often required to qualify for certain government incentives and rebates related to renewable energy.
These components work together to uphold the integrity and standards of installations in the renewable energy sector, providing consumers with confidence in the products and services they choose.
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The image above shows a 23-panel solar installation, carried out by the MCS-certified solar team at Heatable, featuring the REA Fusion2 solar panels.
Why is an MCS-certified solar installation important?
Installers who are MCS certified must meet stringent requirements set by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, encompassing installation standards, customer protection, and the accuracy of system design and projected savings.
The onboarding process for becoming an MCS member is thorough and extensive, reflecting the high standards and integrity of the scheme.
As a result, MCS certification is regarded as the gold standard within the industry.
Many energy suppliers who offer the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) now require installations to be completed by an MCS-approved member.
Furthermore, a growing number of insurance providers will only cover systems under home policies if they are installed by MCS-certified professionals.
Every installation by Heatable comes with MCS certification, ensuring quality and compliance. Get your quote today to benefit from our expert, certified service.
Should you use a non-certified solar installer?
In short, no. While membership fees for MCS are not particularly high, the process of achieving accreditation is lengthy and rigorous.
If an installer isn't MCS certified, it typically means they either did not meet the scheme's stringent requirements or were rejected during the accreditation process.
Additionally, holding an MCS certificate is crucial for financial reasons. Without this certification, you will not be eligible to receive payments under schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) or other export payments, which can significantly offset the costs of your installation over time.
This makes choosing an MCS-certified installer not only a mark of quality but also a financial benefit.
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What other accreditations are important?
Using accredited or approved installers for the installation of your products ensures that you receive the maximum warranty coverage available.
Most manufacturers will only extend the full warranty—often significantly longer than 12 months—if your system is installed by an approved technician or company.
Conversely, installations by non-approved technicians typically only secure a minimal 12-month product warranty.
Additionally, the Which? Trusted Trader approval scheme offers another layer of consumer protection that is well-regarded and difficult to obtain.
Unlike MCS, Which? not only assesses the quality of workmanship and customer service but also conducts financial stability checks on its members.
This comprehensive approach ensures that only financially sound and reliable traders are certified, providing consumers with greater confidence in their choice of service provider.
Next Steps For Your Solar Journey:
When planning to install solar panels for your home, there are several important factors to consider. Make sure to refer to the following guides to help you make informed decisions:
To dive deeper into these topics, head over to our advice section, check out our YouTube channel for informative videos, or read a customer case study to see how others have benefited from their solar installation.
Get a Quote for Solar Today
Without boasting you should get your solar installed with us, here's why:
Thousands of Happy Customers: We boast an average score of 4.9 on Trustpilot, outperforming the market leader.
Which? Trusted Trader: Heatable is proudly recognised as a Which? Trusted Trader.
MCS Accredited: Our accreditation by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) ensures high-quality standards.
Exclusive Panels: We offer REA Fusion solar panels, available only through Heatable.
Consumer Protection: As members of the HIES consumer code, we provide 2-year deposit protection.
Flexible Payment Options: Choose from multiple payment methods, including finance options.
Fixed Price Guarantee: Enjoy transparency with no hidden costs.
Save Your Quote: You can save your quote and decide later.
Bespoke Design Tool: Draw your own conclusion (literally) on whether solar is worth it for you, here.
