What is MCS?
The MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) is an independent scheme that certifies microgeneration products and installers in accordance with a set of quality standards. MCS is designed to provide a minimum level of protection and assurance to consumers as well as a sign of quality for MCS Installers to show their customers.
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is the only certification scheme to cover all microgeneration products and services.
The official definition of microgeneration is in the Energy Act 2004, Section 82. Essentially ‘Microgeneration' is the generation of energy of up to 45kW (heat) or up to 50kW (electricity). The term "microgeneration" is not restricted to energy generated only from renewable sources. It also covers low and zero carbon technologies.
For further information on MCS, the requirements to become an installer, the benefits of becoming an MCS Installer and full details on our MCS Accreditation Support programmes, please call our MCS Accreditation team on 0800 882 4308.
What other non financial benefits are available as an installer of MCS technologies?
- MCS is a sign of a quality which is recognised through a number of industries
- MCS covers a number of requirements under the Green Deal
- MCS can improve the structure of your business in some cases supporting growth and improving efficiency
- SAP Ratings for dwellings recognises MCS Products when determining which products are eligible for inclusion in the rating
- The code for sustainable homes, which is a mandatory requirement for all newly built homes, is open for the use of MCS Technologies to achieve the mininmum rating
How do I know which MCS technology is right for me?
Please see our MCS Technologies page for details of the technologies, costs and installation requirements, if you would like further advice please call a member of our MCS Accreditation team on 0800 882 4308.
What are the planning considerations for low carbon and renewable technologies?
Please see our Planning & Permitted Developments page for information on Planning and Permitted Developments - should you require further advice on the requirements as a prospective or existing MCS Installer then please give our MCS Accreditation team a call on 0800 882 4308.
What is an Office of Fair Trading Scheme?
An Office of Fair Trading Scheme is a Code of Practice that meets the guidelines set by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) Consumer Code Approval. Signing up to a Code of Practice means you have agreed to offer your customers a high level of service and a method for handling complaints. A list of current codes can be found on the MCS Accreditation pages or call our MCS team for further advice on 0800 882 4308.
I’m signed up to the Competent Persons Scheme (CPS), do I still need MCS?
Yes you still need MCS. The Competent Persons Scheme enables you to sign-off installations compliant with building regulation only, which reduces the costs and risk to your clients. CPS at present are not certification to the EN45011 standard, which is the international standard, however, this may happen in the future.
MCS is certificated to the EN45011 international standard, which demonstrates that all your practices and skills meet the MCS standards and requirements. This includes correctly specifying the performance of the system offered against the users requirements. Your CPS is not duplicated as the competences you have demonstrated through the CPS are taken by the MCS Certification Bodies as part of your compliance evidence.
For further details on MCS requirements please call our MCS Accreditation team on 0800 882 4308.
Where can I find an MCS approved product?
MCS covers the following technologies;
- Solar PV
- Solar Thermal
- Heat Pumps
- Biomass
- Wind Turbines
- Micro CHP
- Micro Hydro
A list of all MCS products is available on http://www.microgenerationcertification.org/mcs-consumer/product-search.php
For details on the process for becoming an MCS Installer on any MCS technologies please call our MCS Accreditation team on 0800 882 4308.
How much does MCS Accreditation Cost?
At Easy MCS Ltd we offer a number of packages for MCS Accreditation depending on the number of technologies you would like to become MCS accredited for, the size of your company and the level of MCS support you require. All our packages include a full bespoke MCS Quality Management System with on or off site training tailored to your specific needs. For existing MCS Installers we offer a 12 month ongoing MCS Support programme which includes a personal MCS Mentor throughout the year, support through yearly audits, quarterly audits and any spot checks. Along with complete maintenance of you MCS QMS and record keeping.
You can download our application form by clicking here or contact a member of our MCS team on 0800 882 4308.
How long does MCS Accreditation last for?
You will need to have an annual inspection from a Microgeneration Certification Scheme Certification Body to maintain your MCS Accreditation. You may also be subject to spot checks from both MCS & REAL. For further details on your ongoing requirements please call our MCS Accreditation team on 0800 882 4308. If you are already an MCS Installer please visit our ongoing MCS Support site www.mcssupport.co.uk
Who runs the MCS?
The MCS is overseen by key stakeholders. It is led by a steering group of industry representatives. This MCS steering group appoints various MCS working groups who use their technical expertise to review and develop the MCS standards. The scheme itself is currently administered by the licensee Gemserv who also administer the Green Deal.
If you have further questions please call our MCS Accreditation Advice team on 0800 882 4308.
What do I do next?
If you are ready to start your MCS Accreditation, wan't to get your MCS quickly, have an MCS Assessment booked or have just failed your MCS Assessment then the Award Winning Easy MCS Ltd team would be happy to answer any questions you have regarding your MCS Accreditation and can get your personal MCS Mentor assigned, please call on 0800 882 4308 or complete your application here.
