Overview
The MCS gives recognition of good quality microgeneration products and services in the market place, and provides consumers with confidence and assurance when purchasing and installing these technologies. It also provides consumers with realistic expectations of the performance of microgeneration systems in practice.
As such, in a rapidly growing industry, installers and products that carry the mark are likely to be seen as the preferred supplier in the market place. In addition, the MCS is linked to a number of other initiatives:
- When accessing the Low Carbon Buildings Programme grant scheme the applicant must use an MCS Certified Product (or Solar Keymark for solar thermal installations) and an MCS Certified Installer.
- Under the Town and Country Planning Act, permitted development rights are provided for the installation of solar photovoltaics (PV), solar thermal, ground and water source heat pumps, biomass heating and combined heat and power systems. No application for planning permission is required when installing these technologies in certain circumstances. See here for details.
- The Code for Sustainable Homes is a mandatory requirement for all new build homes to meet sustainability ratings, including ratings for energy and CO2 emissions. MCS certified technologies can be used to meet the requirements of this Code.
- The Standard Assessment Procedure for Energy Rating of Dwellings (SAP 2005) recognises MCS certified products when determining whether products are eligible for inclusion in SAP assessments.
This list will expand in the future as microgeneration plays an increasingly important role in meeting UK targets for renewable energy and carbon emission reductions.
All products and installers certified under the MCS are able to use the MCS mark in their advertising and promotions, their details will be listed on the MCS website for consumers to view, as well as on the Low Carbon Building Programme website.
To Apply
Installers or producers should download the relevant standard for their technology(s) from the "Products" or "Installers" pages in the left hand navigation panel. If you wish to apply for the scheme please select a Certification Body, full details can be found on the Certification Bodies page. Each Certification Body has it's own pricing schedules, please contact them for more details.
