In a follow-up to our previous article on the forthcoming heat pump standard being developed in collaboration with Flexi-Orb, which aims to address many of the shortcomings of the existing Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), we’ve now had the opportunity to discuss further details directly with Flexi-Orb. As we previously reported, this new standard is set to revolutionise the way heat pumps are installed and operated by providing clearer, more practical guidance for customers, installers and manufacturers alike. It promises to simplify the compliance process with tech-driven solutions and a more flexible approach, making it easier for installers to achieve optimal performance while maintaining high standards.
Government Grants and Flexi-Orb Certification
One of the most pressing questions has been whether Flexi-Orb certified installers will be able to offer government grants, such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), to homeowners. According to Flexi-Orb, they have received confirmation from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) that they will be considered equivalent to the MCS. This means that Flexi-Orb certified installers should be eligible to access these grants. However, it’s important to note that while DESNZ has provided this confirmation in principle, the formal Ministerial Letter required to finalise this equivalency has been delayed due to recent elections.
Flexi-Orb is actively engaged with DESNZ to secure this confirmation, but for now, the BUS is not within the scope of Flexi-Orb as the heat pump scheme is still in its developmental phase.
Dual Certification: Flexi-Orb and MCS
Another key question addressed was whether installers would need to be MCS certified in addition to Flexi-Orb certification. Flexi-Orb clarified that dual certification is not necessary and might even be impractical. They likened it to having two car insurance policies for the same vehicle – technically possible, but likely to create logistical challenges. Installers might find themselves struggling to ensure compliance with the specific requirements of each scheme for every project. In the end, this could lead to increased costs and complications without any tangible benefit.
Ensuring Installation Quality
Quality assurance is a top priority for Flexi-Orb, but they were careful to avoid terms like “enforcement” and “botched installations.” Instead, the focus is on ensuring that installations meet the Code of Practice and Scheme requirements. If an installation falls short and the installer fails to provide a remedy, Flexi-Orb will intervene to resolve the issue. Installers who consistently underperform may be removed from the scheme, ensuring that only those who meet the high standards remain.
Flexi-Orb’s approach to quality control is proactive, leveraging instant feedback from consumers to address any issues immediately. This means action can be taken swiftly, without waiting for formal complaints or scheduled assessments, thus minimising consumer detriment.
Certifying Heat Pump Units
Flexi-Orb will also play a role in certifying heat pump units directly through its Product Database. Manufacturers will have the opportunity to self-certify their products, provided they can demonstrate compliance with Flexi-Orb’s product policy criteria. This self-certification process will be closely monitored, with Flexi-Orb verifying compliance before adding products to their database. Importantly, products that already have the necessary international certification and factory production control certificates will not need to be re-certified by Flexi-Orb, streamlining the process for manufacturers.
So What’s Next?
While these updates provide significant clarity, there is more to come. Flexi-Orb has hinted at additional developments, particularly concerning the Heat Pump Code of Practice. These details will be discussed in an upcoming meeting between Renewable Heating Hub and Flexi-Orb, and we will share more information as it becomes available.
Have Questions?
As we continue to monitor and report on this evolving story, we invite our readers to share any questions they may have. We will be discussing this scheme further with Flexi-Orb in the weeks ahead and will be able to get more answers for you. Please leave your questions in the comments below, and we’ll do our best to address them in future updates.
