Tag Archive for: PAS 2030 Certification

 

10 Important Steps to Certification: MCS

What are the 10 important steps to certification? If you’re a contractor or business that installs renewable energy technology and is looking to work on government-backed energy efficiency schemes in the UK, obtaining MCS certification is essential! MCS certification sets the standard for installing renewable energy technologies, ensuring quality, compliance, and customer confidence. However, the process can seem tricky without the right guidance.

In this blog, we’ll explain the 10 important steps to certification for MCS, from understanding the requirements to passing assessments and maintaining compliance. Whether you’re new to the process or seeking to refine your approach, this guide will help you navigate the certification journey with confidence.

First Things First…What is MCS Certification?

The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is the UK’s nationally recognised quality standard for small-scale, renewable energy technologies. It ensures that both the products used and the installers who fit them meet rigorous performance, safety, and quality standards.

MCS certification applies to renewable technologies such as:

  • Solar Photovoltaics (PV)

  • Air and Ground Source Heat Pumps

  • Solar Thermal

  • Battery Storage

For installers, MCS certification isn’t just about credibility – it’s financial gateway. Homeowners and businesses can only access government-backed incentives (like the Smart Export Guarantee) if their system is installed by an MCS-certified installer using MCS-certified products.

Who provides MCS certification?

MCS certification is provided by UKAS-accredited certification bodies that assess businesses for compliance with the MCS standard. These organisations audit installers, ensuring they meet the required standards for quality, competence, and compliance. An example of a UKAS-accredited certification body is us – Simply Certification!

One difficult thing to decide is which certification body you should choose. Many different factors can influence your decision including:

  • Assessor availability
  • Customer service
  • The costs and fees involved
  • Reputation and track record
  • Expertise and experience

Choosing Simply Certification as your certification body for MCS has a whole host of benefits. Our team is made up of leading experts in MCS and we can answer your questions quickly. The service we provide is supportive and responsive – gaining certification can be a little daunting and we remove the fear factor. Take a look to see what one of our customers had to say:

“A very comprehensive and diligent process from start to finish. I would highly recommend Simply Certification and will feel assured when working with any companies who carry accreditation provided by them”.

Nebula Renewables Ltd

If you still cannot decide, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Just check out one of our previous blogs, 8 Things to look for when choosing a certification body.

What are the 10 Important Steps to Certification?

To achieve MCS certification, businesses must follow a structured process to ensure compliance with the standard. Below are our 10 important steps to certification:

#1 – Access Simply Hub 

We have a self service onboarding system, called Simply Hub. To start the process of certification with us, you will need access to this as the first step.

To access you need to register your interest and a link to access Simply Hub will be sent to you to start the application process.

#2 – A quotation will be issued within Simply Hub

Almost like a shopping basket, a quote in Simply Hub will be presented to you. You can amend the measures you wish to go for as many times as you wish. Once you are happy to proceed, just accept the quotation.

#3 – Pay the invoice and complete the contract documentation from PandaDocs

An invoice will be sent to you once your quotation has been accepted. Once you have paid the invoice you will be emailed the contract documentation via PandaDocs. Once this is completed you will receive an assessment Checklist.

#4 – Assessment Preparation and Checklist Update

You must prepare for your assessments, ensuring you have the required evidence available to present to us, showing compliance to the standards you have applied for. As we are a certification body, we are not allowed to support you in the preparation or advise you. To protect you from a high number of non conformances we ask that you complete the online checklist so you can be confident you are ready.

#5 – Assessment Plan and Bookings

Once we have received your completed checklist – our bookings team will be in touch with you we will then schedule your assessment with our assessors.

#6 – Head Office Assessment

This is currently conducted onsite, our assessor will spend a day with you to run through your documentation, processes and procedures to ensure they are all in line with the standard.

#7 – Technical Inspections

Our technical team will carry out an assessment on the measures you are applying for. These must be post for all measures.

#8 Verification and decision making

Once any non-conformances have been closed by the assessor, we will send your reports to an independent verifier who will ensure the standards have been met. Once the verifier is satisfied with the reports, an internal decision-maker will make final decision to grant certification.

#9 Certification granted

Once certification has been granted, we will send your certification pack via email. We will also send you marketing material to shout about your success.

#10 Maintaining certification

To maintain certification, you will be subject to ongoing surveillance to ensure ongoing compliance with the scheme requirements. You will be required to notify us of your installs so that we can carry out inspections throughout the duration of your certification.

Finally…

Achieving MCS certification is a crucial step for businesses looking to work on government-backed energy efficiency projects and major contracts. By following these 10 important steps to certification, you’ll not only ensure compliance with industry standards but also position your business for long-term success in the retrofit sector.

While the process may seem complex, the right preparation—such as developing a good Quality Management System (QMS) and choosing a reputable certification body—will make the journey smoother.

Now that you understand what it takes to become MCS certified and you know the 10 important steps to certification, it’s time to take the next step. Start by reviewing your processes, gathering the necessary documentation, and reaching out to a certification body to begin your application.

If you need further guidance, feel free to get in touch – we’re here to help!

We’re Officially UKAS Accredited for D2 Lighting Systems and Controls!

Simply Certification Secures UKAS Accreditation for D2 – Lighting Systems and Controls

We’re proud to announce that Simply Certification has officially achieved UKAS accreditation for D2, covering lighting fittings, lighting systems, and lighting system controls. This marks an exciting expansion of our certification services and reinforces our commitment to supporting the UK’s drive toward energy efficiency and net-zero targets by 2050.

As a certification body dedicated to simplifying the route to PAS 2030 compliance, this new accreditation means we can now offer fully UKAS-accredited certification to installers delivering energy-efficient lighting solutions, one of the most accessible and impactful measures in building retrofit projects.

What Does D2 – Lighting Cover?

The D2 measure under PAS 2030:2023 encompasses the design, installation, and commissioning of low-energy lighting systems and controls. This includes:

  • Upgrading outdated lighting fittings with high-efficiency LED technologies

  • Installing full lighting systems in domestic buildings

  • Integrating lighting controls, such as dimmers, motion sensors, timers, and smart systems, to optimise energy usage

These installations contribute significantly to reducing a building’s overall energy consumption and carbon emissions, while also enhancing usability, comfort, and long-term cost savings for occupants.

Why This Accreditation Matters…

Being UKAS-accredited means our certification services are independently verified to meet the highest standards of impartiality, competence, and consistency. It gives installers confidence that their PAS 2030 certification is:

  • Robust, credible, and widely recognised

  • Eligible for access to government-backed funding schemes like ECO4

  • Aligned with TrustMark requirements

Installers certified under a UKAS-accredited body like Simply Certification are in a stronger position to win contracts, meet funding criteria, and demonstrate high-quality standards to customers and partners.

Supporting Installers Through Every Step

Achieving PAS 2030 certification can seem like a complex process, especially with technical measures such as D2, which involves both electrical installations and smart control systems. That’s why our approach is built around making certification clear, supportive, and efficient.

Whether you’re a micro business, a growing SME, or an established contractor diversifying your offering, our process supports your business needs.

Why Now Is the Right Time for D2 Certification

With the UK Government’s focus on reducing building emissions and improving energy efficiency through initiatives such as ECO4 and SHDF the demand for competent and certified lighting system installers is growing rapidly.

D2 is a particularly attractive measure because:

  • Lighting upgrades are highly cost-effective and easy to implement

  • It’s a low-disruption option for homeowners and tenants

  • Smart lighting controls can deliver long-term energy savings

Becoming certified now ensures you’re well-positioned to access funded work, meet compliance requirements, and gain a competitive edge in the market.

Join the Growing Network of Certified Professionals

Our newly awarded UKAS accreditation for PAS 2030 under D2 expands the opportunities for installers and reflects our ongoing investment in helping tradespeople and businesses thrive in the retrofit space.

If you’re ready to take advantage of this growing market and want a certification body that’s responsive, clear, and genuinely supportive, Simply Certification is here to help.

Get Started Today!

📞Call: 0191 323 3960

📧Email: hello@simplycertification.co.uk

🌐Visit: www.simplycertification.co.uk

Let’s light up the future together!

10 Important Steps to Certification

What are the 10 important steps to certification? If you’re a contractor or business looking to work on government-backed energy efficiency schemes in the UK, obtaining PAS 2030 certification is essential! PAS 2030 certification sets the standard for installing energy-efficient measures, ensuring quality, compliance, and customer confidence. However, the process can seem tricky without the right guidance.

In this blog, we’ll explain the 10 important steps to certification for PAS 2030, from understanding the requirements to passing assessments and maintaining compliance. Whether you’re new to the process or looking to refine your approach, this guide will help you confidently navigate the certification journey.

First Things First…What is PAS 2030 Certification?

PAS 2030 Certification is a UK standard that sets out the requirements for businesses installing energy efficiency measures. The standard ensures that installations meet high-quality standards and are compliant with government-backed schemes like the Energy Company Obligation (ECO).

A few of the energy efficiency measures that PAS 2030 covers are:

  • B1 – Cavity Wall Insulation
  • B2 – Draught Proofing
  • B3 – Energy Efficient Glazing & Doors
  • B4 – External Wall Insulation
  • B5 – Flat Roof Insulation
  • B6 – Floor Insulation
  • B8 – Internal Wall Insulation
  • B9 – Loft Insulation
  • B10 – Pitched Roof Insulation
  • B12 – Room-in-Roof Insulation
  • C1 – Gas-fired Condensing Boilers
  • C5 – Heating Controls
  • D1 – Electric Storage Heaters

Since 2021, PAS 2030 must be used alongside PAS 2035, which sets the framework for whole house retrofit projects. This means that energy efficiency upgrades should be planned in a way that considers the entire building’s performance rather than just installing single measures in isolation.

Who provides PAS 2030 certification?

PAS 2030 certification is provided by UKAS-accredited certification bodies that assess businesses for compliance with the  PAS 2030 standard. These organisations audit installers, ensuring they meet the required standards for quality, competence, and compliance. An example of a UKAS-accredited certification body is us – Simply Certification!

One difficult thing to decide is which certification body you should choose. Many different factors can influence your decision including:

  • Assessor availability
  • Customer service
  • The costs and fees involved
  • Reputation and track record
  • Expertise and experience

Choosing Simply Certification as your certification body for PAS 2030 has a whole host of benefits. Our team is made up of leading experts in PAS 2030 and we can answer your questions quickly. The service we provide is supportive and responsive – gaining certification can be a little daunting and we remove the fear factor. Take a look to see what one of our customers had to say:

“We approached Simply Certification as we were disappointed with the service of the certification body that we had used for several years for our PAS 2030. What a stark contrast! From start to finish, I have found the team at Simply responsive, understanding and extremely helpful”.

BCS Render Systems Ltd

If you still cannot decide, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Just check out one of our previous blogs, 8 Things to look for when choosing a certification body.

What are the 10 Important Steps to Certification?

To achieve PAS 2030 certification, businesses must follow a structured process to ensure compliance with the standard. Below are our 10 important steps to certification:

#1 – Access Simply Hub 

We have a self service onboarding system, called Simply Hub. To start the process of certification with us, you will need access to this as the first step.

To access you need to register your interest and a link to access Simply Hub will be sent to you to start the application process.

#2 – A quotation will be issued within Simply Hub

Almost like a shopping basket, a quote in Simply Hub will be presented to you. You can amend the measures you wish to go for as many times as you wish. Once you are happy to proceed, just accept the quotation.

#3 – Pay the invoice and complete the contract documentation from PandaDocs

An invoice will be sent to you once your quotation has been accepted. Once you have paid the invoice you will be emailed the contract documentation via PandaDocs. Once this is completed you will receive an assessment Checklist.

#4 – Assessment Preparation and Checklist Update

You must prepare for your assessments, ensuring you have the required evidence available to present to us, showing compliance to the standards you have applied for. As we are a certification body, we are not allowed to support you in the preparation or advise you. To protect you from a high number of non conformances we ask that you complete the online checklist so you can be confident you are ready.

#5 – Assessment Plan and Bookings

Once we have received your completed checklist – our bookings team will be in touch with you we will then schedule your assessment with our assessors.

#6 – Head Office Assessment

Usually conducted remoted via Teams, our assessor will spend a day with you to run through your documentation, processes and procedures to ensure they are all in line with the standard.

#7 – Technical Inspections

Our technical team will carry out an assessment on the measures you are applying for. These must be pre, mid and post for most measures. If you don’t have any live PAS 2030 jobs available, we will work with you to look at certification through an alternative route.

#8 Verification and decision making

Once any non-conformances have been closed by the assessor, we will send your reports to an independent verifier who will ensure the standards have been met. Once the verifier is satisfied with the reports, an internal decision-maker will make final decision to grant certification.

#9 Certification granted

Once certification has been granted, we will send your certification pack via email. We will also send you marketing material to shout about your success.

#10 Maintaining certification

To maintain certification, you will be subject to ongoing surveillance to ensure ongoing compliance with the scheme requirements. You will be required to pre-notify us of your installs so that we can carry out inspections throughout the duration of your certification.

Finally…

Achieving PAS 2030 certification is a crucial step for businesses looking to work on government-backed energy efficiency projects and major contracts. By following these 10 important steps to certification, you’ll not only ensure compliance with industry standards but also position your business for long-term success in the retrofit sector.

While the process may seem complex, the right preparation—such as developing a good Quality Management System (QMS) and choosing a reputable certification body—will make the journey smoother.

Now that you understand what it takes to become PAS 2030 certified, it’s time to take the next step. Start by reviewing your processes, gathering the necessary documentation, and reaching out to a certification body to begin your application.

If you need further guidance, feel free to get in touch – we’re here to help!

“I’ll send you my documents and you check it and then I get certified, right?”

“Our installers are on a competent person’s scheme so don’t understand why PAS 2030 is needed”

“Why can’t I send photos of the installations for my technical inspections, they should do?”

These are frequent questions and statements that we hear regularly at Simply Certification when taking on new customers for PAS 2030.

The latest version of PAS 2030 along with PAS 2035 has been released to provide a more robust standard at an organisational level than its predecessors. The standard ensures best practice is followed throughout the installation journey which protects the owner/tenants of the property, public funding and ultimately ensures the building itself achieves the objective of becoming more energy efficient.

At Simply we work with our clients as their critical friend and provide a valuable assessment experience for PAS 2030 which will protect your business in the long run from claw backs and money lost through having to re-visit installations to put them right.

More than a certificate

We strongly believe that if you are paying for a third-party assessment to demonstrate you are compliant with any standard, the value is not just gaining a certificate. It is so much more.

Going through the process of gaining PAS 2030 certification should also help identify any areas of weakness that your business may have across its processes that could result in a high number of technical monitoring fails – that could ultimately cost your business tens of thousands in claw backs and remediation.

At a first glance, a light desktop check of documents, submitted photographs or a quick technical assessment may sound attractive in to gain certification quickly, but how would this really benefit your business?

Cutting corners to gain certification quickly, will actually be putting your business at risk.

Getting it right, saves you in the long run

Understanding the standard, ensuring you have the relevant framework and infrastructure in place and demonstrating you are following the standard will help ensure that you are protecting your business.

We have worked with a number of clients how have previously had poor assessments and unfortunately lead them down a pathway of gaining a high technical monitoring fails, only for the same certification body threaten to remove their certification without any further support.

Our approach is to support our clients to get it right, encourage them not to cut corners and provide a robust assessment that identifies any route causes that could lead to any damage to their business.

Although it may seem like hard work initially this leads to firm foundations and a compliant organisation that reaps the rewards.

Want to start your PAS 2030 journey with Simply?

We are welcoming new applications from customers across the UK, whether a small start up or large national contractors.

Simply start your online application today.