MCS Certification for Solar Panels
MCS certification is essential for solar PV installations in the UK, but why is it so crucial? This article discusses the importance of this certification, how it affects the quality and design of your solar array, including the risks associated with not having it.
There are regulators for each trade, such as MCS for the renewable energy sector, NICEIC for electricians, and Gas Safe for gas engineers.
It’s interesting to note that only Gas Safe registration is required by law out of these three.
If they self-certify as competent individuals, electricians are allowed to work; similarly, anyone who feels qualified can install house batteries or solar PV systems without a formal accreditation.
What is MCS, why is it voluntary to be governed by them, and why should you think about hiring an installation that has earned MCS accreditation for your home battery or solar PV project?
In order to comprehend the significance of MCS accreditation in guaranteeing quality and dependability in the renewable energy sector, let’s examine these issues.
PS: We provide countrywide MCS-certified solar panel installation services. Just respond to these questions to receive your fixed price and set up your complimentary design.
First, let’s look at the regulator: who is MCS?
Who Are MCS?
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) has been a key player in the renewable energy sector since its launch in 2007. Its growth has closely followed the rise in popularity of solar PV systems and battery storage, establishing itself as a trusted name in quality assurance for low-carbon technologies.
MCS is built around three core pillars:
1. Becoming a Certified Member
Joining MCS isn’t a quick tick-box exercise. The process is designed to be thorough, often taking between six to nine months. Installers must meet strict technical standards and undergo detailed assessments by a recognised certification body. This ensures that only qualified professionals earn MCS accreditation, giving customers peace of mind when choosing a provider.
2. The MCS Installation Database (MID)
This is the official list of MCS-approved products, everything from solar panels to battery storage units. Each item listed has passed rigorous testing and meets the scheme’s high-performance standards. For homeowners, this means the products used in their installations are not just efficient, but proven to perform.
3. Certification for Homeowners
Once a certified installer completes a renewable energy installation, MCS issues a certificate to the property owner. This document verifies that the work meets MCS standards and is often essential when applying for government grants or incentive schemes related to green energy.
These three elements form the backbone of MCS and help maintain trust, quality, and transparency in the fast-growing world of renewable energy.
The image above shows a 14-panel solar installation, carried out by the MCS-certified solar team at Edinburgh Boiler Company
Why Does MCS Certification Matter for Solar Installations?
Choosing an MCS-certified installer ensures you’re working with a company that meets some of the most rigorous standards in the renewable energy industry. From the way systems are designed to how they’re installed and the protection offered to customers, MCS certification covers it all.
To become certified, installers must go through a detailed and often lengthy assessment process. This isn’t just a formality, it’s designed to verify that every aspect of their service, including workmanship, safety, and projected energy savings, meets the high expectations set by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme.
In short, MCS certification gives homeowners confidence that their solar panel installation will be safe, efficient, and fully compliant with industry standards, plus, it often unlocks access to government-backed incentives and export tariffs.
As a result, MCS certification is widely recognised as the benchmark for quality and reliability in the renewable energy sector.
Many energy suppliers participating in the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) now insist that solar installations are carried out by MCS-certified installers. Without this certification, homeowners may not be eligible to receive payments for excess energy exported back to the grid.
In addition, a growing number of insurance companies are making MCS certification a condition for covering solar systems under home insurance policies. This added requirement highlights the importance of choosing an accredited installer from the outset.
At The Edinburgh Boiler Company, every solar installation we carry out is backed by full MCS certification, guaranteeing not just expert workmanship but full compliance with industry and regulatory standards. Ready to get started? Request your free quote today.
Should You Hire a Non-Certified Solar Installer?
In short, it’s not worth the risk. While the cost of joining the MCS scheme is relatively modest, the path to becoming certified is anything but simple. Installers must undergo a rigorous assessment process to prove they meet the high standards set by the scheme.
So, if a company isn’t MCS certified, it often means it failed to meet these standards or chose not to undergo the process. In either case, it raises questions about its quality, reliability, and long-term support.
Beyond quality assurance, MCS certification also plays a vital role financially. Without it, you won’t be eligible to receive payments through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), a scheme that allows you to earn money for the excess electricity your solar system exports back to the grid. These payments can significantly reduce the overall cost of your installation over time.
Choosing an MCS-accredited installer isn’t just about getting a job well done; it’s a smart investment in both quality and future returns.
What Other Accreditations Should You Look For?
Hiring an accredited installer doesn’t just ensure the job is done right, it can also affect your product’s warranty. Most solar panel and battery manufacturers offer extended warranties only when their systems are fitted by approved professionals.
On the other hand, using an unapproved installer could leave you with a much shorter warranty, sometimes as little as 12 months.
Another valuable accreditation to look out for is Which? Trusted Trader endorsement. Unlike MCS, Which? goes a step further by reviewing not only an installer’s technical skills and customer service but also their financial health. Only businesses that demonstrate stability and integrity receive the Trusted Trader badge, offering customers added peace of mind.
Why Consider Us for Your Solar Installation?
When it comes to choosing a solar installer, it’s important to know you’re in safe hands. Here are a few reasons homeowners trust us:
Proven Customer Satisfaction: Thousands of homeowners have chosen us for their solar needs, and we’re proud to hold an average Trustpilot rating of 4.9, higher than many leading providers.
Which? Trusted Trader Endorsed: We’re independently assessed and endorsed by Which?, one of the UK’s most trusted names in consumer advice.
Fully MCS Certified: Our MCS accreditation means every installation meets recognised quality standards, giving you peace of mind and access to incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee.
Access to Exclusive Technology: We supply REA Fusion solar panels, an exclusive product range only available through our service.
Strong Consumer Protection: As members of the HIES Consumer Code, we protect your deposit for up to 2 years, offering additional security for your investment.
Flexible Ways to Pay: We offer a variety of payment options, including flexible finance plans to suit different budgets.
Upfront, Fixed Pricing: There are no surprises, just a clear, fixed quote with no hidden extras.
Quotes You Can Save: Not ready to decide right away? You can save your personalised quote and come back when the time’s right.
Interactive Solar Design Tool: Curious if solar’s right for you? Try our bespoke design tool and explore your savings potential in just a few clicks.
FAQ's
Technically, yes, you can have solar panels installed by a non-MCS certified installer. However, this is not recommended. Without MCS certification, the installation may not meet recognised industry standards, and you won’t be eligible for schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Additionally, many insurers and manufacturers may refuse extended warranties or coverage unless the system was installed by an MCS-accredited professional.
You can verify an installer’s MCS certification by visiting the official MCS website at mcscertified.com. Use their installer search tool to check the company’s credentials by name or postcode. This ensures you’re hiring a professional who meets the scheme’s strict standards for quality and customer protection.
An MCS certificate is issued after a fully certified installer completes your solar panel installation. Homeowners don’t apply for it themselves, the installer handles the process. Once the system is registered with the MCS Installation Database (MID), you’ll receive your certificate, which acts as proof that your installation meets industry standards and qualifies for financial incentives like SEG.
