MCS - Microgeneration Certification Scheme
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is the UK's quality-assurance scheme for small-scale renewable energy technologies. MCS certifies both products and installers, and is required to access most government renewable energy incentives.
What MCS does
MCS sets and maintains the technical and consumer protection standards that microgeneration products and installers must meet. Certification gives consumers confidence that the kit being installed and the people installing it meet a recognised UK standard.
Who needs it
If you install any of the technologies below to access government incentives, you (or your business) must be MCS-certified:
- Heat pumps — air source, ground source, water source
- Solar PV
- Solar thermal
- Biomass heating
- Micro-CHP
- Battery storage
- Small wind turbines
Why it matters
MCS certification is required for installations supported by the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), Home Energy Scotland grant, ECO funding, and the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Without it, your customers can't claim the grants — and most won't go ahead.
ProTech's perspective
MCS is essential for any installer working in renewables. Many of our heat pump trainees move on to pursue MCS certification for their businesses. The route to becoming MCS-certified is structured but can feel daunting on first read — happy to talk you through the qualification, evidence, and audit requirements.