MCS Installation Trends 2025: Growth in Heat Pumps, Solar PV & Battery Storage

In today’s blog, we take a look at the latest MCS data on renewable technology. As the UK accelerates its transition toward net-zero, the demand for low-carbon technologies continues to surge. Recent Q1 data released by MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) for 2025 confirms a significant increase in installations and certified contractors, particularly in heat pumps, solar PV, and battery storage systems.

This growth signals an uptake in demand and a maturing market, one that offers not only opportunity but long-term stability for professionals who take the leap into the renewable sector. Trust us, the rewards are worth it.

Heat Pumps: Continued Growth in a Key Sector

MCS-certified heat pump installations rose steadily between Q1 2024 and Q1 2025, reflecting rising consumer awareness and policy support.

• 2025 installations: 15,457
• 2024 installations: 13,041
• Increase: 18.5%
• 2025 MCS-certified contractors: 2,111
• 2024 MCS-certified contractors: 1,800
• Increase: 17.3%

This demonstrates an uptake in adoption and acceptance of the technology. In turns, resulting in more professionals becoming certified and reaping the benefits.

Solar PV: A Mainstream Renewable Staple

Solar PV systems continue to dominate domestic and commercial renewable installations, with a significant increase in activity from 2024.

• 2025 installations: 57,039
• 2024 installations: 42,571
• Increase: 34%
• 2025 MCS-certified contractors: 4,133
• 2024 MCS-certified contractors: 3,672
• Increase: 12.5%

With installation numbers surpassing 57,000 in just one quarter, it’s clear that solar PV remains one of the most accessible and in-demand technologies in the sector. The market is far from saturated, with both an abundance of demand and homes suited for the technology.

Battery Storage: A Breakout Year

Stop rubbing your glasses, you read the numbers right… Battery storage has seen the most dramatic growth of all MCS technologies, indicating a shift in how consumers think about energy efficiency and independence. Agile tariffs introduced by energy providers has had a dramatic impact on the adoption and will continue to positively impact consumer consensus.

• 2025 installations: 8,047
• 2024 installations: 3,388
• Increase: 137%
• 2025 MCS-certified contractors: 2,137
• 2024 MCS-certified contractors: 1,210
• Increase: 76.6%

Why Confidence in MCS-Backed Technologies Is Growing

Several factors are contributing to the increased confidence in renewable energy installations, including:

1. Government Incentives and Policy Support

With schemes such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ongoing regulatory encouragement for low-carbon solutions, both consumers and businesses are more confident in transitioning to sustainable technologies.

2. Improved Consumer Awareness

Homeowners and commercial property owners alike are increasingly aware of the benefits of renewable technologies, including long-term cost savings and energy independence.

3. Technological Advancements

Modern heat pumps, battery systems, and solar PV panels are more efficient and reliable than ever, with improved design standards and better integration options.

4. Education & Quality Assurance

People are becoming educated on the technology, and the media (for the most part) no longer demonises these energy solutions. This is largely due to an uptake in the quality of installations carried out by technical operatives. In turn, resulting in less shoddy work, and higher customer satisfaction. We’d like to think we’re playing our part particularly well in this area…

What This Means for Installers and Operatives

The continued growth in MCS-certified installations presents a clear opportunity for heating engineers, electricians, and trades professionals to expand their services and boost their earning potential.

Training and certification are no longer optional, they are essential for accessing funded projects, meeting compliance standards, and gaining customer trust.

Whether you are looking to future-proof your business, meet regulatory standards, or tap into higher-margin work, the data speaks for itself. Now is the time to get qualified.

Upskill with GRE Energy Training

At GRE Energy Training, we offer a comprehensive range of accredited courses aligned with MCS standards. Our training programmes are designed to support both newcomers and experienced operatives in gaining the qualifications needed to work safely, and efficiently in this growing market.

Our most popular renewable energy courses include:

• BPEC Award Air & Ground Source Heat Pump Systems (Level 3) Course
• BPEC Award Solar PV Installer (Level 3) & BPEC Electricity Energy Storage Systems Course
• BPEC Battery Storage Systems (EESS) Course
• BPEC Low Temperature Hot Water Heating Systems Course
• City & Guilds 2079-11 F-Gas (Cat 1) Regulations Training Course

All training is delivered by industry experts in facilities that combine practical, hands-on experience with structured theoretical learning.

The Rub

The increase in MCS installations in Q1 2025 marks a significant milestone for the UK’s renewable energy sector. The data confirms growing consumer demand, increased contractor certification, and a broader acceptance of these technologies as viable and essential solutions.

For tradespeople, this is a clear signal: the opportunity to build a meaningful and profitable career in renewables has never been greater.

To stay competitive and compliant in this rapidly evolving industry, investing in professional training is essential.

Interested in joining the next wave of certified renewable installers? We hope you are part of the statistics this time next year.

Contact GRE Energy Training today or click here to browse our upcoming course dates to get started.

You can view all the data via the MCS dashboard by clicking here.

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