As of October 2024, MCS has more than 5,000 certified contractors for small-scale renewable technologies. The MCS Data Dashboard shows the number of certified contractors has nearly doubled from 2,563 in September 2022.
Currently, 77% of MCS contractors are certified for solar PV, 58% for heat pumps, and 34% for battery storage. Notably, the number of contractors certified for battery storage has more than tripled between September 2023 and September 2024, indicating a rising demand for this technology.
Equipping the industry with skills for the future
The increase in certified contractors demonstrates a growing number of installers equipped with the knowledge and skills to design, install, and commission renewable technologies, which will be crucial in meeting future demands.
Industry voices on the milestone achievement
To encourage new industry entrants, MCS has partnered with the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) and a trailblazer group of heat pump installers to develop the Low Carbon Heating Technician Apprenticeship, focusing on training the next generation in designing, installing, and commissioning low carbon heating technologies.
Jon Bonnar, managing director of MCS certified contractor Cotswold Energy Group, said: “As a renewable energy installer, MCS certification gives our customers confidence in the quality of our products and installations, whilst also providing protection through warranties and guarantees.”
Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, added: “MCS is incredibly proud to have more than 5,000 certified contractors, giving consumers confidence in the quality, safety and performance of their renewable installation when transitioning to greener heating solutions. Installers are set to play a key role in UK’s decarbonisation efforts, so it’s crucial that we support them and the wider industry to deliver high-quality installations at scale.”
Image: MCS