Due to the closure of the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (DRHI) on 31st March 2022, MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) announced at the end of January this year two new standards to replace MIS 3005.

From the 1st April 2022, there will be two new mandatory standards, one to cover heat pump design (MIS 3004-D) and one for heat pump installation CMIS 3005-I).

Ian Rippin, chief executive of MCS said: “The diversification of the new Heat Pump Standards will enable the industry to deliver the best service to customers and accommodate contractors who wish to streamline their skillset.

“Our change reflects the market. It is a move in the right direction as we look to encourage more installers into low-carbon heating and, in turn, increase the adoption of heat pumps in UK homes and non-domestic buildings”

MCS intends the new standards to facilitate the predicted increase in contractors who can install heat pumps and work alongside independent heat pump designers.

What will the change mean for installers?

• More flexibility for installers who are currently MIS 3005 certified. They can remain as they are or become a certified designer (MIS 3005-D) or installer at their next certification surveillance assessment
• Any contractor (designer or installer) who holds the customer contract can register a system on the MCS Microgeneration Installation Database (MID)
• Compliance certificates issued as part of the DRHI will no longer need to be required
• Designers can work according to the new standard straight away – even if installations are completed prior to the withdrawal of the old standard.

The new standards will not affect existing heat pump contractors, as by default, they are already certified for both design and installation. Their certifications will carry over until their next certification assessment when they can choose to be certified for one or both of the new standards.

LCL Awards’ Level 3 qualification in the Installation and Maintenance of Heat Pump Systems (Non-refrigerant Circuits), has been updated in accordance with the new standards.