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Why does the MSC 012 certification matter for solar installations?

11 February 2025 | Admin

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Why does the MSC 012 certification matter for solar installations?

Recently, Renusol’s RH1 Roof Hook and RH Flat Roof Hook products have both achieved MCS 012 certification. The new certificates add to a long history of MCS certificates for Renusol products including roof attachments, rails and clamps.

The MCS 012 certification is part of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), which sets robust quality standards for renewable energy systems and their components in the UK. Specifically, MCS 012 focuses on verifying that roof-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and solar collectors meet building regulations for structural integrity and watertightness.

The certification is critical for solar contractors because it means greater confidence in installations and ensures their installations comply with regulatory and technical requirements. For customers, MCS 012 provides peace of mind that the products used in their solar systems are reliable, durable and capable of withstanding the UK’s often harsh weather conditions.

What are the assessment criteria for MCS 012?

Achieving MCS 012 certification involves thorough assessments and rigorous testing to ensure products meet the highest standards. Key aspects include:

Structural strength

Products are tested for wind uplift resistance to determine their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions. Multiple tests are performed to assess the strength of the entire system. Roof hooks, rails and clamps are tested rigorously in different combinations.

Watertightness and weather resistance

Watertightness tests are crucial to maintaining the roof’s integrity under solar installations. The certification guidelines assess direct water resistance and simulate harsh conditions — including wind-driven rain — to ensure systems remain leak-proof over the desired service time. These tests ensure the system can withstand pressure differences caused by wind without leakages.

Installation manual review

Installation manuals are scrutinised to ensure they provide clear, comprehensive instructions for safe and reliable installations. Manuals are updated as needed to reflect the latest standards.

Internal quality processes

Regular audits of internal processes and quality controls are conducted to verify that manufacturers maintain consistent product quality.

Renusol's MSC 012 certification success

Following successfully performed tests, Renusol’s RH1 Roof Hook and RH Flat Roof Hook products have both achieved MCS 012 certification.

During the certification of these products, multiple tests were performed to determine the strength and wind uplift resistance of the whole system, including modules (roof hooks, rails and clamps in different combinations). This extensive physical testing confirmed that Renusol’s hooks and systems can withstand significant wind loads, ensuring structural integrity under varying conditions.

Weather resistance and watertightness of the whole system were determined using a rain delusion test and, where required, a wind-driven rain test. The test involved applying water and strong wind to simulate pressure differences that can cause leakage. Both products successfully passed these rigorous tests, demonstrating their durability and resilience under worst-case scenarios.

Additionally, our installation manuals were checked and partially changed to reflect all the information installers need on-site for the safe and reliable installation of the products (which will last for over 25 years). Renusol’s internal processes and quality control measures were also reviewed and audited to ensure they meet the high standards required for MCS 012 certification.

The MCS 012 certification is a testament to Renusol’s dedication to delivering reliable and high-quality solar-mounting solutions. Achieving certification for the RH1 Roof Hook and RH Flat Roof Hook reinforces Renusol’s commitment to supporting solar contractors with products that meet the highest standards of structural integrity and long-term performance.

By choosing Renusol, you are investing in products that are built to last, even in the most demanding conditions. Contact us today to find out more about the RH1 Roof Hook, RH Flat Roof Hook and our other roof-mounting solutions.