The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has formally recognised the robust consumer protection offered by MCS’s redeveloped installer Scheme as a Code of Practice for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS).
This announcement acknowledges MCS’s enhanced role within the small-scale renewables sector as a consumer protection organisation, as well as a standards body.
It builds on the recognition by the government of the redeveloped installer Scheme, which has already been explicitly highlighted in the upcoming £15 billion Warm Homes Plan as playing a pivotal role in providing assurance in the UK’s transition to home-grown energy. This follows confirmation in October 2025 that MCS is the sole certification scheme for clean heat measures for UK government funded schemes.
It also means that, effective immediately, installers delivering installations under BUS no longer require membership to a Consumer Code if they are certified to the redeveloped Scheme.
The redeveloped installer Scheme is a fundamental shift for the sector that will drive quality, consumer protection, and confidence in home-grown energy. By centralising complaints management, strengthening financial protection, and contacting every recipient of an MCS certified installation, the redeveloped MCS will drive quality outcomes for consumers. It is now live, with the first installers already moved across and delivering installations under these new requirements.
The transition phase will last until 31 March 2027; the deadline by which all MCS certified installers will need to be operating under the redeveloped Scheme.
Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, says:
“This recognition by government is a result of years of hard work by MCS and the entire industry to build a Scheme that puts consumer protection, as well as quality, at the heart of what we do.
“With the transition period well underway, we remain committed to raising standards across the sector and giving consumers peace of mind when investing in home-grown energy.”
Martin McCluskey, Minister for Energy Consumers, adds:
“The British people are embracing clean power technology in record numbers, with 2025 the best year yet for heat pump, rooftop solar panel, and battery installations.
“This reform, together with the establishment of the Warm Homes Agency, is a central part of improving people’s experience of home upgrades and ensuring greater protection for consumers.”
MCS certified installers that have not yet moved over to the redeveloped Scheme are encouraged to understand what the changes will mean for their business to avoid delays. There are a range of resources available on the MCS website, including this guide for those transitioning, and a free-to-access learning platform for those becoming certified for the first time.
