The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is an independent scheme that certifies microgeneration products and installers in accordance with consistent standards. It is designed to evaluate microgeneration products and installers against robust criteria providing greater protection for consumers.

The MCS is the only certification scheme to cover all microgeneration products and services, and has support from the Department of Energy and Climate Change, industry and non-governmental groups as a prime method for making a substantial contribution to cutting the UK's dependency on fossil fuels and carbon dioxide emissions. Home and Business Owners If you are a home or business owner you can find information on the range of microgeneration technologies, grant schemes, planning considerations and search for certified products and/ or installers.

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.