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How Many MCS Installers Are There in the UK?

Posted on 24 October 2024 by The Solar Co

As the renewable energy sector continues to grow in the UK, more homeowners and businesses are looking to invest in sustainable solutions like solar panels, heat pumps, and wind turbines. However, choosing the right installer, who is MCS certified, is crucial to ensuring the quality and efficiency of these systems. But how many MCS installers are there in the UK?

What Does MCS Certified Installer Mean?

 

MCS certification is a quality assurance scheme that certifies both the products and installers of renewable energy systems in the UK. When you choose an MCS-certified installer, you’re selecting a professional who has demonstrated competence in installing renewable energy technologies to the industry’s best practices. It ensures that installations meet high standards of performance and safety.

 

MCS certification is a gateway to accessing government incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), which ensure a return on investment from your solar panels. These schemes are only available to installations carried out by MCS-certified installers, making it even more important to choose an MCS-certified professional for your project.

How Many MCS Installers Are There in the UK?

 

As the demand for renewable energy increases, the number of MCS-certified installers across the UK is increasing. The exact number fluctuates as new installers are certified and others leave the scheme, but estimates suggest that there are over 2,000 active MCS-certified installers. This number reflects the increasing number of professionals seeking to obtain MCS certification, to gain trust in installing a solar power system.

 

The number of MCS-certified installers has steadily increased over the past decade, driven by the UK’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy sources. This growth is expected to continue as more consumers and businesses turn to renewable energy to reduce their environmental impact and save on energy costs.

 

The Importance of Choosing an MCS-Certified Installer

 

Selecting an MCS-certified installer is crucial for several reasons:

 

  1. MCS certification ensures that the installer has met rigorous standards for both technical competence and customer service. This gives you peace of mind that your installation will be carried out to the highest standards.

 

  1. Only installations carried out by MCS-certified professionals qualify for government incentives like the SEG and RHI. Without this certification, you won’t be able to access these financial benefits, which can significantly reduce the cost of your renewable energy system.

 

  1. MCS certification ensures that your installation complies with all relevant regulations and industry standards. This is important not only for safety and performance but also for maintaining the value of your property.

 

  1. MCS-certified installers often provide better support and warranty options compared to non-certified installers. This means that if something goes wrong with your system, you have the assurance that it will be addressed promptly and professionally.

How to Find an MCS-Certified Installer

The official MCS website offers a searchable database of certified installers across the UK. You can search by postcode, technology type, or company name to find a local installer that meets your needs.

 

When choosing an installer, it’s important to do your research. Look for reviews and testimonials from previous customers, and don’t hesitate to ask the installer for references. A reputable MCS-certified installer will be happy to provide this information and discuss their experience with similar projects.

The Future of MCS Certification and the Renewable Energy Sector

 

The future of MCS certification looks bright as the UK continues to push towards its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. With increasing government support for renewable energy and solar panel investment, alongside rising consumer awareness of environmental issues, the demand for MCS-certified installers is expected to grow.

 

In response to this demand, the MCS scheme is likely to evolve, with updates to standards and the introduction of new technologies to provide high-quality installations that meet the needs of customers.



If you’re considering a renewable energy project, choosing an MCS-certified installer is essential for ensuring the quality and compliance of your installation, as well as accessing valuable government incentives. As the renewable energy sector continues to expand, the number of MCS-certified professionals is expanding, offering consumers more options for sustainable energy installations. 

There's no reason to look around though...

 

At Solar Co, we take pride in being an MCS-certified company, ensuring that all our solar installations meet the highest industry standards for quality and safety. As a trusted brand with a proven track record, we've helped numerous homeowners and businesses transition to renewable energy with ease. Whether you're looking to install solar panels, battery storage, or other energy-saving solutions, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. We not only ensure that your system is efficient and reliable, but also that it qualifies for valuable government incentives like the SEG and RHI. Reach out to us today and discover how we can help you save on energy costs while making a positive impact on the environment.

FAQ’s

 

  1. What is an MCS installer?

   - An MCS installer is a professional who has been certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) to install renewable energy systems, ensuring high standards of quality and safety.

 

  1. How many MCS installers are there in the UK?

   - There are over 2,000 MCS-certified installers in the UK, with the number steadily increasing as demand for renewable energy solutions grows.

 

  1. Why should I choose an MCS-certified installer?

   - Choosing an MCS-certified installer ensures that your installation meets industry standards, qualifies for government incentives, and is carried out by a qualified professional.

 

  1. Where can I find an MCS-certified installer near me?

   - You can find MCS-certified installers in your area by using the searchable database on the official MCS website, which allows you to search by postcode or technology type.

 

  1. What types of renewable energy systems do MCS installers work with?

   - MCS installers are certified to work with various renewable energy technologies, including solar panels, heat pumps, wind turbines, and biomass boilers.

 

  1. How do I verify if an installer is MCS-certified?

   - You can verify an installer’s MCS certification by checking their credentials on the official MCS website or asking them to provide their certification number.

 

  1. What are the benefits of using an MCS-certified installer for my solar panel installation?

   - Using an MCS-certified installer for your solar panel installation ensures eligibility for government incentives, high-quality installation, and compliance with industry standards.

 

  1. Can I get government incentives without using an MCS-certified installer?

   - No, to qualify for government incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) or Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI), your installation must be carried out by an MCS-certified installer.

 

  1. How long does it take to become an MCS-certified installer?

   - The process of becoming an MCS-certified installer typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the business and preparation time.

 

  1. What qualifications do MCS installers need?

    - MCS installers need to meet specific technical and operational standards, complete relevant training, and pass an assessment and audit process to achieve certification.

 

  1. Are there different types of MCS certification?

    - Yes, MCS certification covers different renewable energy technologies, so an installer may be certified for specific systems such as solar PV, heat pumps, or wind turbines.

 

  1. How often do MCS installers need to renew their certification?

    - MCS certification must be renewed annually, with a review of the installer’s operations and possibly a re-assessment to ensure continued compliance with MCS standards.

 

  1. What happens if I use a non-certified installer for my renewable energy project?

    - Using a non-certified installer may result in lower installation quality, non-compliance with industry standards, and ineligibility for government incentives.

 

  1. Can MCS-certified installers work with commercial projects?

    - Yes, MCS-certified installers can work with both residential and commercial renewable energy projects, ensuring quality installations for all types of customers.

 

  1. What should I look for when choosing an MCS-certified installer?

    - When choosing an MCS-certified installer, it’s also important to verify their certification status and the types of renewable energy systems they specialise in.

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