Record-Breaking Year for Small-Scale Renewables in the UK
2024 was a landmark year for small-scale renewable energy in the UK, according to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), the nation's quality mark for renewable technologies like solar PV and heat pumps. With over 260,000 certified installations recorded across UK homes and businesses, the country demonstrated its growing commitment to sustainable energy solutions. This represents a 7% increase over 2023, which was itself a record-breaking year.
The latest figures have pushed the total number of certified installations past the 2 million mark, reflecting the increasing adoption of renewable technologies for heating and powering homes and businesses. The UK’s drive toward net zero is gaining momentum, with initiatives like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) and the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan offering substantial financial support to homeowners making the transition.
Heat Pumps: A Major Growth Area
Heat pumps emerged as one of the standout technologies of 2024, with nearly 60,000 certified installations—a 43% increase over 2023. This significant rise brings the total number of certified heat pump installations in the UK to more than 275,000. Incentive schemes have played a critical role in this growth.
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) in England and Wales and the Home Energy Scotland (HES) Grant and Loan in Scotland provide grants of up to £7,500 for certified heat pump installations.
For rural households in Scotland, the HES scheme offers additional support, with grants of up to £9,000.
These programmes have made heat pumps more accessible and affordable for homeowners, further accelerating their adoption.
Solar PV and Battery Storage Continue to Shine
Solar PV remains the most popular renewable technology, with over 180,000 certified installations in 2024 alone. Meanwhile, battery storage saw its own record-breaking year, with nearly 20,000 certified installations. These technologies are enabling more households to harness and store clean, renewable energy, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.
Industry and Government Support
Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, praised the progress, stating, "It’s fantastic to see the record-breaking uptake of renewable energy technologies across the UK. More consumers are making the switch to home-grown energy, placing their trust in MCS-certified contractors to give them confidence in their renewable installations. As the numbers rise and more people benefit, it’s crucial that standards are maintained to keep the momentum going."
Miatta Fahnbulleh, Minister for Energy Consumers, added, "It is excellent news that clean energy is now within reach for more people than ever. From heat pumps to solar panels, renewables are essential for supporting working people to secure affordable, homegrown power for their homes and businesses. By almost doubling the budget for our Boiler Upgrade Scheme in the next financial year, we hope that records for renewable installations continue to be overtaken."
MCS Data Dashboard: A Key Resource
The MCS Data Dashboard remains the most comprehensive repository of small-scale renewable technology data in the UK. With near real-time updates on installations, the platform offers valuable insights into the ongoing transition to cleaner energy.
The Path to Net Zero
As renewable energy adoption continues to grow, the UK is taking tangible steps toward its net zero goals. The record-breaking figures from 2024 highlight not just the progress made but also the potential for even greater achievements in the years to come. With strong industry standards, government support, and innovative technologies, the future of renewable energy in the UK looks brighter than ever.
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