MCS qualification or not?

ThatCompexDude · Sep 22, 2022

Hi folks.

Just got a quick question about the MCS. Is it a necessity that people registering with the MCS need a solar specific qualification? Or do our other qualifications deem you as competent? Their website isn’t very clear and I’m reading mixed things.

As someone who’s installed solar, it would be nice to not take a week off work to do a solar course.

Thanks all.

swaRRR · Sep 23, 2022

MCS registration is for installing panels. The electrical work can be done through your scheme provider.

ThatCompexDude · Sep 24, 2022

swaRRR said:
MCS registration is for installing panels. The electrical work can be done through your scheme provider.

Sorry, I may not have been clear enough. I’ll explain better.

A contractor wants to use my company to install solar, which we will require MCS as customers wants the feed in tariff (or the new thing it’s called now)

So whilst we apply for the MCS, do I personally need to do a solar qualification to successfully obtain the MCS?

Thanks

swaRRR · Sep 24, 2022

ThatCompexDude said:
Sorry, I may not have been clear enough. I’ll explain better.

A contractor wants to use my company to install solar, which we will require MCS as customers wants the feed in tariff (or the new thing it’s called now)

So whilst we apply for the MCS, do I personally need to do a solar qualification to successfully obtain the MCS?

Thanks

No i think you only need to show an install and have it examined. I'd ring scheme providers and ask.

richardg · Sep 26, 2022

I have just asked Napit this very question - they told me unless I have 2 years experience as a solar/battery installer I would need to to take a course on each technology I wanted MCS approval for. It seems like a long drawn out process with lots of paperwork to complete and high associated costs. Napit are looking for £1000 for 1st year of operation followed by £850 a year.
After reading what’s needed to operate as ‘MCS’ accreditation im in two minds whether I want to.
As a qualified electrical contractor I am now installing my own pv/battery system, I can plan-create reports- install solar and battery’s and notify/apply to the local grid provider that it meets GS99/100.
The only thing I can not do is apply for the FIT which isn’t a problem as I will consume 100% of the energy made.
Thinking it would be easier to partner with another company who is MCS to bring in the work without the headache involved with the scheme.
Any feedback from people who are MCS would be appreciated