The non-profit organisation, which is committed to helping people make cleaner and safer choices in the use of biomass and other solid fuels and associated technologies, has developed the scheme to support the MCS Standard for Planned and Preventative Maintenance of Biomass Appliances. 

The Standard was prepared by the MCS Biomass Maintenance Working Group in consultation with industry. It follows research by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) which acknowledged that poorly maintained appliances emit particulates that damage air quality, and a lack of operator knowledge and maintenance are the primary reasons for poor biomass boiler operations and increased emissions. 

The new scheme run by HETAS will recognise competent maintenance businesses and individuals that can carry out manufacturers’ required appliance maintenance and raise the importance of burning the correct fuel. Engineers registered on the scheme will be able to meet the requirements placed on domestic and commercial recipients of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) to prove their appliance is properly maintained.

Michael Harvey, HETAS training and technical support manager, said: “Annual appliance maintenance is a critical factor in ensuring they operate efficiently and effectively, reducing costs for the owner and having a significant impact on harmful emissions. Through our consultation with all areas of the industry, the scheme recognises that there is a wide spectrum of biomass boiler installations out there from small domestic appliances to huge district heating networks. As such, we’re continuing to work with manufacturers and engineers to ensure the scheme covers as many installationscenarios as possible to be as effective as it can be.”

Maintenance businesses and engineers interested in registering with the scheme must have evidence of experience and evidence of training.  To find out more and apply online visit https://www.hetas.co.uk/biomass-boiler-service-and-maintenance-scheme/