MCS certified installations of battery storage units are at record highs in the UK.
That’s according to the CEO of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), Ian Rippin.
In a column for Renewable Energy Installer (REI), Rippin notes that 2023 was a “record-breaking year for battery storage”, a trend set to continue in 2024.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what he had to say:
- There were almost 5,000 MCS certified installations of battery storage units in 2023, a record annual high.
- In 2024, there have so far been more than 2,200 certified installations.
- Battery storage ranks as the third most popular technology type to be installed amongst MCS contractors.
- Over 1,100 MCS contractors are now certified for battery installations.
Why is battery storage growing in the UK?
Scrapping of VAT
As of February 2024, all home battery installations are VAT-free.
That includes battery storage with solar PV, standalone battery storage, and retrofit storage batteries for an existing solar array.
Growth of home solar
Roof-mounted home solar PV panels have soared in popularity among homeowners.
The price of solar panels dropped from around USD2.32 (£1.87) per kWh in 2010 to around USD0.26 (£0.21) per kWh in 2022.
Moreover, solar PV tends to be the most scalable option for those who want to generate their own renewable energy.
The latest estimates suggest there are around 519,409 residential solar installations in the UK.
Rippin asserts that so far this year, 85% of MCS certified battery installations have been installed alongside a solar PV system.
This suggests a growing awareness of why battery storage and solar are a perfect match.
Home batteries can store solar energy to be discharged during times of high electricity demand.
That being said, standalone battery storage without solar is also a viable option for reducing energy bills and carbon emissions. This is true for consumers on smart tariffs.
What is the MCS?
The MCS is a body responsible for overseeing standards in the installation of renewable technologies.
Installers can become MCS certified for the installation of heat pumps, solar PV panels, battery storage, etc.
April 2022 marked the first MCS certified battery storage installation.
Note that to become an approved GivEnergy installer, you DON’T need MCS certification. You DO, however, need to be a qualified electrician.
Click here for more information.
Ready to start your journey
If you want to cut your energy bills and your carbon emissions, join the battery storage revolution today.
Find an approved GivEnergy installer near you.
