FAQ
What is Microgeneration?
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.
The technologies involve the generation of electricity or heat and in some cases both, which is referred to as cogeneration.
What is the MCS?
The MCS is a scheme that certifies low carbon and renewable energy technology products and installers, the ambition is to rapidly grow the microgeneration industry by applying rigorous standards to the manufacture and installation of approved technologies. The MCS therefore provides consumers with a guarantee that the products/ installers they select meet a high, third party tested, standard. To be eligible to receive a grant you must use a certified installer and a certified product.
What grants are available and where can I find information on eligibility?
Home, business and third sector organisations may be eligible for a grant from the Low Carbon Building Programme. More information can be found at: http://www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk/ including eligibility criteria and application details.
Your energy supplier may have schemes or grants available, call your local energy advice centre free on 0800 512 012.
Most local authorities provide grants and offers for local residents to install certain energy efficiency measures in their home. Please contact your local authority for more information. To find your local authority details please click here.
What other financial benefits are available for installing sustainable energy technologies?
VAT levies on household energy supply.
Stamp duty relief on zero carbon homes: http://www.hmrc.gov.uk/budget2007/bn26.htm.
How do I know which technology is right for me?
Please see our "MCS Technologies" page for details of the technologies, costs and installation requirements.
What are the planning considerations for low carbon and renewable technologies?
Please see our Planning - Permitted Developments page for information on Permitted Development.
What is an Office of Fair Trading Scheme?
It 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 Installer Certification” pages of the MCSAccredited.com website.
I’m signed up to the Competent Persons Scheme (CPS), do I still need MCS?
Yes, the CPS 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 after the consultation on CPS is complete.
MCS is certificated to the EN45011 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 Certification Bodies as part of your compliance evidence.
How long does MCS certification take?
The length of the process depends on a number of factors such as company size and number of technologies. You should contact one of our team for more information.
Where can I find an MCS approved product?
A list of all products is available on our MCSAccredited.com Manufacturer Pages.
How much does MCS certification cost?
At MCSAccredited.com we offer a number of packages for accreditation depending on the number of technologies you would like to be accredited for, the size of your company and the level of support you require. We offer packages including a full bespoke quality management system with on or off site training tailored to your specific needs.
How long does MCS certification last for?
You will need to have an annual surveillance visit from a Certification Body to maintain MCS certification.
Who runs the MCS?
The MCS is overseen by key stakeholders. It is led by a steering group of industry representatives. This steering group appoints various working groups who use their technical expertise to review/ develop the MCS standards.
What do I do next?
The dedicated MCSAccredited.com team would be happy to answer any questions you have regarding your accreditation.
