What is MCS certification?
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is the UK's quality standard for renewable home installations. MCS certification is required to access government grants like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and to earn Smart Export Guarantee payments for your solar exports.
What is the MCS?
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is an independent quality assurance scheme for small-scale renewable and low-carbon energy technologies. It was set up to give homeowners confidence that the products and installers they choose meet rigorous technical and professional standards.
MCS certifies two things: the technology (the solar panels, heat pump, or battery must meet efficiency and safety standards) and the installer (the company fitting the system must demonstrate technical competence, carry the right insurance, and operate to professional standards). Both must be MCS-certified for government grants to apply.
MCS is independent of government but is underpinned by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero (DESNZ). It covers solar PV, solar thermal, heat pumps, battery storage, wind turbines, and biomass heating.
Why MCS certification matters
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
Up to £7,500 off a heat pump or £5,000 off a biomass boiler. Only MCS-certified installers can apply for this grant on your behalf.
Learn moreSmart Export Guarantee
Paid for every unit of solar electricity you export to the grid. Requires MCS certification of both installer and panels.
Learn moreECO4 scheme
Free or heavily subsidised insulation and heating upgrades for eligible households. MCS-certified installers required.
Learn moreFinance products
Most green mortgages and eco home finance products require work to be done by MCS-certified installers.
Learn moreHow to check if an installer is MCS certified
You can search the live MCS register at mcscertified.com by postcode, company name, or technology type. The register shows current certification status — an installer who was certified in the past may not be certified today.
All installers on this platform are verified against the MCS register before they can receive enquiries. We display each installer's certification badge and MCS number on their profile so you can independently verify their status.
Common questions about MCS certification
What does MCS stand for?
MCS stands for Microgeneration Certification Scheme. It is an independently managed quality assurance scheme that certifies both renewable and low-carbon technology products and the installers who fit them. MCS is underpinned by the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero.
Do I need an MCS-certified installer to get the Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant?
Yes. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) — which offers up to £7,500 towards a heat pump or £5,000 towards biomass — requires that both the installer and the system are MCS-certified. Your installer applies for the grant on your behalf and the voucher is paid directly to them.
Is MCS certification required for the Smart Export Guarantee?
Yes. To receive SEG payments for exporting excess solar electricity to the grid, both your solar panels and your installer must be MCS-certified. Without MCS certification, your energy supplier cannot legally pay you for your exports.
How do I check if an installer is MCS certified?
You can check the MCS installer database at mcscertified.com. Search by postcode, name or technology type. All installers on this site are verified against the MCS register before they can receive enquiries.
How long is MCS certification valid?
MCS certifications require annual renewal. Installers must undergo regular audits and demonstrate ongoing compliance with MCS standards to maintain their certification. An installer who was certified five years ago may not be certified today — always check the live register.
What is the difference between MCS and TrustMark?
MCS certifies the specific technology (solar, heat pumps, etc.) and the installer's competence to install it. TrustMark is a broader government-endorsed quality scheme covering all home improvement trades. For renewable energy, MCS is the required standard for accessing grants and the SEG; TrustMark is an additional quality signal.
Find MCS-certified installers near you
Every installer on this platform is verified on the MCS register. Free quotes, no commitment.