The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) (initially named "The UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme") is the first product and installer certification scheme to cover all the microgeneration technologies. The MCS Mark is currently owned by the Secretary of State for Energy. The industry-led MCS Steering Group evaluates microgeneration products and installers against strict criteria using European and ISO technical standards for micro wind turbines, heat pumps including ground and air source heat pumps, photovoltaics, biomass, CHP and solar thermal.

It is thought that setting robust installation and product standards will help to build up a UK microgeneration market from its current low base, by improving public perceptions of these unfamiliar technologies. The Scheme's overall aim is to contribute to creating a safe, reliable and low carbon energy source to meet challenging EU 2020 targets on renewables. The Microgeneration Certification Scheme is designed to raise standards, protect consumers and to offer information through the certification "mark".

The Microgeneration Certification Scheme was initially created to underpin the (now defunct) Low Carbon Buildings Programme which offered UK government grants for installation of microgeneration and, as such, replaced the earlier 'Clear Skies' programme. Grants were only offered to UK householders and other qualifying applicants who used MCS certified products (or those with a mark accepted as "equivalent") and MCS installers. Other initiatives, for example the Feed-in Tariff, and general permitted development orders (for some technologies) are also linked to MCS certified products and installers. Other initiatives may be linked to MCS in the future, for example the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).