In fact if the Government does not take it strategy forward with smaller business, many of them could start to oppose its plans, according to the campaign.

The Department for Energy and Climate Change (DECC) published its Microgeneration Strategy last week.

But, there’s a growing feeling among smaller tradesmen, many of who will be carrying out the work, that the Government is not engaging with them.

The campaign is backed by some of the biggest industry names including Vaillant, Baxi Group, Biasi Worcester Bosche representing around 75% of the boiler market as well as the Chartered Institute of Plumbing & Heating Engineers (CIPHE).

According to campaign spokesman and Plumbers Merchant chairman, Mick Williams, the Government needs to simplify its Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) for small business.

The Government says its microgeneration strategy: “At present, small installer companies may be not be clarifying the case for microgeneration to potential consumers.

“The trade associations and other industry bodies have an ideal opportunity to work with their respective members to promote microgeneration.

“SMEs will want clear concise information about what the opportunities of microgeneration mean for them and how they can get involved.”

Mr Williams said: Well, they have got this spot on, but smaller installers are not even talking microgeneration to potential consumers and they won’t until they feel able to get involved.

“I absolutely agree with the sentiments but as it stands, the smaller installer community are not ready to be advocates, but quite the opposite.”

For more information visit Mr William’s blog Trade Only.

Luke Walsh

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