More than 100 experts from across the small-scale renewables sector attended MCS’s Working Group Conference on Tuesday 4 November at The British Library.
The event brought together members of the MCS Technical Working Groups, which are made up of experts from across the sector that meet regularly to discuss industry issues and ensure that MCS Standards are created by industry, for industry. It was a chance for members of the Groups to come together, share updates, and hear the latest from across industry. Attendees included installers, manufacturers, trade organisations, certification bodies, consumer group representatives, educators, and independent specialists.
The event featured panel discussions and presentations on the key challenges from the past 12 months, covering energy policy, fire safety, MCS reforms, and an introduction to the latest MCS technology – Thermal Energy Storage Systems (TESS).
The Minister for Energy Consumers, Martin McCluskey MP, also attended the Conference to deliver a keynote speech. He provided an update on government policy, including the upcoming Warm Homes Plan, which was followed by a live Q&A with the audience.
Ian Rippin, CEO at MCS, said: “Every year, we look forward to the Working Group Conference as a way of bringing together our fantastic standards community. It gives us a chance to showcase the progress being made across the different working groups and to identify opportunities for collaboration between the different groups.
“Ultimately, the work that our working groups do in shaping our standards is crucial to our mission of giving everyone confidence in home-grown energy, as they define how small-scale renewables should be tested, designed, and installed.”
David Heath, Independent Chair of MCS Standards, said: ““Meeting with those who give up their time to ensure MCS standards are robust, comprehensive and provide genuine protection for consumers, I’m struck by how clearly they understand the need for integrity throughout the process. This creates confidence for stakeholders – whether they are manufacturers, installers, decision-makers or, most importantly, end-users.”
