RECC Membership
Renewable Energy Consumer Code — protecting homeowners through enforceable standards for renewable energy installers
What Is the Renewable Energy Consumer Code?
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC) is a consumer protection scheme designed specifically for the renewable energy sector. Approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), RECC sets out a comprehensive code of conduct that member companies must follow when selling, installing, and maintaining small-scale renewable energy systems for domestic customers.
RECC was established to address the unique challenges homeowners face when purchasing renewable energy systems. Unlike buying a standard household product, solar panels, battery storage, and other renewable technologies represent a significant financial investment and involve complex technical considerations. RECC ensures that consumers receive accurate information, fair contracts, and proper aftercare from the companies they deal with.
All MCS-certified installers are required to be members of a consumer code — and RECC is the most widely adopted code in the UK renewable energy sector. Membership is not optional; it is a condition of operating as an MCS-certified installer.
Why Does RECC Matter?
Pre-Sales Protection
RECC members must provide clear, accurate, and honest information before you commit to a purchase. This includes realistic performance estimates, transparent pricing with no hidden costs, and honest guidance about whether a renewable energy system is suitable for your property. No misleading claims, no pressure selling.
Fair Contract Requirements
The code sets strict requirements for contracts between installers and homeowners. Contracts must be clear and written in plain English, include a full specification of works, state the total price and payment schedule, and include your cancellation rights. You'll always know exactly what you're paying for.
Aftercare Standards
RECC doesn't end when the installation is complete. Members must provide proper handover documentation, explain how to operate your system, and respond to any issues that arise after installation. Ongoing support and warranty obligations are clearly defined, so you're never left without help.
Independent Complaints Procedure
If something goes wrong and you can't resolve it directly with your installer, RECC provides a free, independent complaints procedure. An independent adjudicator can review your case and make binding decisions. This gives you a formal route to resolution without needing to go to court.
What RECC Requires from Installers
RECC's code of conduct is extensive and covers every stage of the customer journey. Here are some of the key obligations that Blue Electrics adheres to as a RECC member:
Before the Sale
- Provide written performance estimates based on your specific property, orientation, and shading conditions — not generic figures
- Give a clear, itemised quotation with the total price including VAT, deposit requirements, and payment terms
- Explain the expected benefits honestly, including realistic energy generation figures and potential savings
- Never use high-pressure sales tactics or create false urgency
- Provide information about relevant grants, incentives, and feed-in mechanisms you may be eligible for
The Contract
- Provide a written contract in plain, understandable language
- Include a full technical specification of the system to be installed, including make and model of all components
- Clearly state your 14-day cooling-off period and right to cancel
- Detail the warranty terms for both products and workmanship
- Outline the estimated installation timeline and key milestones
After Installation
- Provide a comprehensive handover pack including all certificates, warranties, and user guides
- Explain how to operate and monitor your system
- Respond promptly to any post-installation queries or issues
- Honour all warranty commitments for the stated duration
- Maintain records of the installation for future reference
What This Means for You
As a homeowner working with Blue Electrics, our RECC membership means you benefit from a comprehensive set of protections at every stage:
- Honest, pressure-free guidance — we'll tell you whether solar is right for your property, and if so, recommend the system that genuinely suits your needs and budget
- Transparent pricing — our quotations are clear and detailed, with no hidden fees or surprise charges
- Your right to change your mind — you have a 14-day cooling-off period after signing, during which you can cancel without penalty
- Quality documentation — you'll receive a complete handover pack with everything you need to register for SEG, claim warranties, and understand your system
- A safety net if things go wrong — in the unlikely event of a dispute, RECC's independent adjudication service provides a free, formal route to resolution
- Confidence in your investment — knowing that your installer operates under an enforceable consumer code approved by Trading Standards gives genuine peace of mind
How Blue Electrics Adheres to RECC
At Blue Electrics, we don't simply meet RECC's minimum requirements — we see the code as a foundation upon which we build even higher standards of customer service.
Our detailed site surveys use professional shading analysis tools and energy modelling software to provide accurate, property-specific performance estimates. Our quotations break down every cost transparently, and we take the time to explain each component and why it's been specified for your system.
We believe that informed customers make the best decisions. That's why we never use pressure tactics or create artificial urgency. We're happy for you to take your time, compare quotes, and ask questions — because we're confident our quality and service speak for themselves.
After installation, our aftercare doesn't stop at handover. We remain available for advice on system monitoring, energy optimisation, and any technical questions. Our team is always just a phone call away.
For more information about RECC and your rights as a consumer, visit recc.org.uk/consumers.