The importance of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme 

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The Microgeneration Certification Scheme, or MCS, is a quality benchmark to make sure that companies dealing with electricity or heat generating technologies are working at high standards. The MCS is an internationally-recognised scheme and also part of a British Standard for certifying products, processes and services. 

This is really important when choosing a company to install microgeneration technology, to make sure you’re getting the best products.

Quality

Firstly, the MCS is an industry-led scheme that test products thoroughly, in labs and audits. This means that lab-tested products are checked to be the same quality as those produced in factories, leaving no room for inaccuracy. By complying with European and International standards, the MCS approval really shows a high quality product.

Customer Protection

Not only does the MCS monitor quality, but it protects customers. It works with the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC) and Home Insulation and Energy Systems Contractors Scheme (HIES) to check that companies are following the correct protocols and code of practice.

Government Finance Schemes

Financial incentives from the Government, such as Feed-in Tariffs and the Renewable Heat Incentive, mean you can claim money back for owning renewable energy technologies such as solar panels or biomass boilers. But the installers of these technologies must have their products MCS approved to be eligible for the incentive programmes. If you generate excess electricity from your solar power system, for example, the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) lets you sell it back to the National Grid.

Sustainability

To fit with the Code for Sustainable Homes, the MCS approval is compulsory. This code involves a low CO2 emission rating and low energy rating which is needed to class your home as sustainable. In fact, all newly built homes need to meet these requirements.

It’s clear to see that the MCS demonstrates a high level of quality. The photovoltaic roof tiles we use at Metrotile are manufactured by GB Sol, which have the MCS tick of approval. You can search for yourself here. For more information on our PV solar tiles, please give us a ring on 01249 658 514 or fill in a contact form and we will get back to you.