What Installers Need to Know About Solar Mounting Systems
Staying ahead in the solar industry means staying compliant. We want to ensure our installer network is fully aware of the latest MCS updates impacting solar mounting systems. Here’s what you need to know.
On the 10th of May, MCS released The Solar Mounting (Product) Standard (MCS 012 v3.0). This update is significant as it now specifically includes mechanically and non-mechanically attached mounting systems for flat roofs.
Previously, installers used Clause 5.5.5 in The Solar PV Installation Standard (MIS 3002) for custom flat roof mounting systems, ensuring they met Building Regulations with written confirmation from designers/suppliers.
However, with MCS 012 now covering flat roof systems, Clause 5.5.5 will no longer be an acceptable means of compliance for these installations.
Recognising that manufacturers need time to get new flat roof products certified, MCS has granted a grace period until August 10, 2025. Until then, you can still register flat roof installations using uncertified mounting systems, provided all original requirements of Clause 5.5.5 are met. Be mindful of this deadline as the industry transitions to fully certified flat roof solutions.
As a result of this change, however, several solar mounting kit products had their certification withdrawn from the MCS database which has understandably caused concern for installers with recent installations or existing stock.
To address this, MCS has promptly announced a six-month grace period.
Key Details of This Grace Period:
Eligibility: You can continue to install and commission installations using these affected products.
Purchase Date: Products must have been purchased from the manufacturer before May 10, 2025 (when their certification ended).
Certification Window: Installations are compliant if their certificate is issued on or before November 10, 2025.
MID Visibility: After November 10, 2025, these products will no longer appear in the MCS database for new certificates.
Previous Installations (Pre-May 10): If a product was installed while certified (before May 10) but not yet certified in the MID, do not use the ‘grace period’ option. Contact the MCS Helpdesk for guidance.
Affected Manufacturers
The withdrawn certificates primarily impact products from manufacturers such as Alumero, Clenergy, K2 Mounting Systems, Solar Slate Plate, Wagner, and Fastensol. These products will reappear in the MCS Product Directory as ‘(GRACE PERIOD)’ with a certification date from ’10/05/2025 to 10/11/2025′ from May 16, 2025.
These updates highlight the importance of staying informed. The team are dedicated to providing you with MCS-compliant products and the necessary information to ensure successful installations. If you have questions, please reach out to your sales manager – Segen Info.
