When researching solar panel or battery storage installers, you’ll often come across terms like MCS, TrustMark, and RECC. But what is RECC, and why should it matter to you as a homeowner?
RECC stands for the Renewable Energy Consumer Code, and it plays a key role in protecting customers during the process of buying and installing renewable energy systems. If you’re investing in solar panels or battery storage in Lancashire and the rest of the North West, choosing a Renewable Energy Consumer Code member is an important part of making a well-informed, protected decision.
What is RECC?
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code is a government-backed scheme overseen by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI). It was created to ensure that consumers are treated fairly when buying small-scale renewable energy systems such as solar PV, solar battery storage, or heat pumps.
RECC sets out high standards for how companies must behave before, during, and after installation. If a company is part of RECC, it has committed to following a strict code of conduct that prioritises honesty, transparency and quality customer service.
What Does the RECC Code Cover?
The code covers the entire customer journey, helping you feel confident in every step of the process. It includes:
• Accurate and honest advertising and sales information
• Clear and fair quotations and contracts
• The right to cancel within a set cooling-off period
• Proper installation using trained staff and certified equipment
• A robust complaints and dispute resolution process
At West Coast Electrical, we follow these standards not just because we’re RECC members, but because it’s the right way to treat customers.
Why is the Renewable Energy Consumer Code Important When Choosing a Solar Installer?
RECC members actively protect homeowners throughout the installation process. They also ensure that:
• Members avoid high-pressure sales tactics and give customers the space to make informed decisions.
• The products installed will meet strict quality and performance standards
• You’ll receive clear information and documentation
• You have access to a free dispute resolution service if anything goes wrong
For many households, solar and battery storage is a long-term investment. Working with a RECC-accredited company helps reduce the risk of issues later on.
Are All Solar Installers Renewable Energy Consumer Code Accredited?
No – not all solar installers are RECC members. That’s why it’s worth checking an installer’s credentials before moving forward. MCS certification ensures technical compliance, but RECC goes further by guiding how companies treat customers throughout the process.
West Coast Electrical proudly holds full RECC accreditation. We work across the whole of the North West Including Blackpool, Poulton-le-Fylde, Thornton-Cleveleys and Lytham St Annes, offering solar and battery storage systems that are not only technically sound, but also backed by consumer protections.
What’s the Difference Between RECC and MCS?
MCS and RECC often go hand in hand, but they’re not the same:
• MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) focuses on technical standards and product certification
• RECC focuses on consumer protection, contract terms and fair treatment
For a system to qualify for government-backed incentives or finance, the installer usually needs to be both MCS and RECC accredited.
Why We Chose to Join RECC
At West Coast Electrical, we take customer service and compliance seriously. By joining RECC, we commit to high standards and give our customers the transparency they deserve.Our team stays up to date with the latest regulations and renewables guidance, so every project meets the expectations set out in the RECC code.
Speak to a RECC-Accredited Installer
If you’re looking into solar panels or battery storage in the North West including the whole of Lancashire, Blackpool or Fylde Coast area, get in touch with the team at West Coast Electrical. We’re proud to be RECC-accredited and offer honest, local advice with no hard selling.
