MCS appoints new non-executive director

16 February 2023

MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme), the standards organisation for small-scale domestic renewable energy and technology across the UK, has appointed Stephen Trotter to its board as a non-executive director.

Stephen has an impressive leadership track record of more than 30 years in the energy industry – from power transmission and distribution to leading renewable energy projects.

He is qualified as a chartered electrical engineer and most recently was chief executive of Natural Power, a global energy consultancy working exclusively on world-leading green energy projects.

Stephen’s passion for skills and people development, especially supporting the net zero energy transition, will help inform MCS’s growing work to redefine competency in the renewable energy and heating industry.

He has been a member of several cross-cutting industry groups focussing on safety, skills and technology, experience which will bolster MCS’s work to provide consumer and contractor confidence in renewable technology.

On joining the board Stephen said: ‘It is a pivotal time to be joining MCS.  I am looking forward to working closely with the board and the executive team at MCS as it plays an increasingly important role in helping deliver an integral part of the UK’s net zero energy transition.

‘The need for home-grown energy solutions has never been stronger, especially given the ongoing cost-of-living crisis which has brought about an increased focus on the UK’s energy affordability and security.

‘It’s only right there be further attention on renewable energy generation to reduce carbon emissions. MCS data highlights the continued uptake in solar, battery storage and heat pump installations, as well as an increase in certified contractors who are on the ground delivering the work.

‘MCS certification of products and contractors provides consumer confidence that low carbon energy solutions deliver energy and cost-saving benefits in the short term while adding to the value of a property in the longer term.’

Ian Rippin, CEO of MCS, added: ‘It’s great to welcome Stephen to our team as he joins the board at a critical period. The business is in solid shape as we continue to play a vital role in addressing the huge challenge of decarbonising homes across the UK.

‘Stephen’s vast industry experience and leadership skills will help us meet our ambitious objectives by providing stewardship that will enable us to inform consumers and decision makers and work alongside our partners and stakeholders to support the sector’s growth.