Government includes MCS updates in microgeneration strategy

Speaking at the Microgeneration UK Conference, energy and climate change minister Greg Barker (pictured) announced the government’s action plan and described MCS as being “critical for the industry’s development”.

He said the adjustments would make the scheme more effective, simplified and better aligned with other initiatives, while providing a more competent workforce.

It will also be more relevant to SMEs and provide protection to consumers, he added.

Heat Pump Association president Tony Bowen was one of various industry experts providing feedback to the Department of Energy and Climate Change.

He told H&V News the updates would make MCS “more prescriptive” and give installers and customers a better understanding of renewable energy systems.

Commenting on the updates to MCS, Easy MCS operations manager Simon Roberts said he was “very happy with the outcome”.

Piper Assessment chief executive Steve Wright was also in favour of simplifying and making the scheme more accessible to SMEs. He said his main concern was lack of government commitment to publicise the scheme.

Mr Wright warned that there will be a “massive skills shortage” if the government’s plan to introduce small-scale renewable technology into homes is realised.

Those in the H&V sector need to act now and utilise the skills already in existence, he argued.

“If there is a continued reluctance to get involved then there are many others waiting in the wings to take away what should be our work,” said Mr Wright.