What it is
The Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC) is a consumer protection code for businesses that sell small-scale renewable and low carbon energy systems to homeowners. It covers solar PV, batteries and heat pumps, among others. The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) approves it under its Consumer Codes Approval Scheme.
The Code is sponsored by the Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA) and run by its subsidiary, Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd. It covers the whole customer journey: advertising, sales visits, quotes and performance estimates, contracts, deposits, installation, guarantees and complaints. It works alongside MCS. MCS sets the technical standard for the installation, and the RECC sets the standard for how the customer is treated.
Energy Giants has applied to join the RECC, and we already work to the current version of the Code (Version 9, July 2026) on our solar and battery work. The RECC website lists its members and has guidance for homeowners.
What the Code asks of an installer
In plain English, these are the parts of the Code that matter most when you are buying solar panels or a battery.
Honest marketing
Adverts, websites and sales material must not mislead. Claims about savings, performance or credentials must be accurate and backed up.
No pressure selling
No limited-time or limited-availability offers, no follow-up calls offering bigger discounts, no sales visits longer than two hours, and no unrealistic energy-price or inflation projections.
Realistic performance figures
Performance estimates have to follow the MCS method, and the installer has to explain that the estimate may change once the site has been surveyed in detail.
Clear quotes and paperwork
A written quote that sets out what is being supplied, the price, the timetable, the payments due and when, before you commit to anything.
A 14-day cancellation period
You can cancel without penalty within 14 days. Any deposit has to be repaid within 14 days of a valid cancellation.
Limited, protected deposits
A deposit should be a reasonable share of the cost, for example 15%, and never more than 25%. Deposits and advance payments together may not exceed 60%, and they must be insured in case the installer stops trading.
Guarantees that survive
Workmanship guarantees have to be backed by insurance, so they are honoured even if the installer is no longer trading.
Independent dispute resolution
Members must have a complaints process. If a complaint cannot be settled, a member's customers can take it to the Code's independent, CTSI-approved dispute resolution service.
Summarised from the Renewable Energy Consumer Code, Version 9 (1 July 2026), sections 5, 6, 8 and 9. The full Code is published by the RECC.
How we apply it
- Energy figures come with their basis. Savings, payback and performance numbers are based on typical scenarios and published data. Your surveyor gives you an estimate for your own home, and our footer says so on every page.
- We do not publish what a customer paid. Our case studies show the system, the result and an indicative range. We never show a price that could set false expectations.
- We say what our certificates cover. We are MCS certified for solar PV and battery storage only, and we say so. Our PAS 2030 certificate covers flat roof insulation only, and we say that too.
- No pressure. No countdown offers, no "today only" discounts. Our recommend a friend reward stays within the Code's £50 limit.
- Guarantees are insurance backed. Our installation guarantee is backed by an insurance policy, with details on our accreditations page.
What the Code covers, and what it doesn't
Our solar panel, battery storage and other small-scale energy generation work for homeowners.
Insulation, roofing, windows and doors, and our work for housing providers and contractors. Those are covered by their own standards and guarantees, listed on our accreditations page.
Questions about the Renewable Energy Consumer Code
What is the Renewable Energy Consumer Code?
It is a consumer protection code for businesses selling small-scale renewable energy systems, such as solar panels, batteries and heat pumps, to homeowners. It is approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute and administered by Renewable Energy Assurance Ltd.
Is the RECC the same as MCS?
No. They work together. MCS certifies installers and products against technical standards. The RECC sets the consumer protection standard for how the installer sells, contracts, takes deposits and handles complaints.
How much deposit can a solar installer ask for under the Code?
The Code says a deposit should be a reasonable percentage of the cost, giving 15% as an example, and must never be more than 25%. Deposits and further advance payments together must not exceed 60%, and they must be insured.
Can I cancel a solar panel contract?
Yes. Under the Code you can cancel without penalty within 14 days, and any deposit must be returned within 14 days of cancelling.
Does the RECC cover insulation?
No. The Code covers small-scale energy generation and related products such as batteries. Insulation is covered by other schemes, such as PAS 2030 and TrustMark.
How do I check whether an installer follows the Code?
The RECC publishes a list of its members on recc.org.uk. Ask any installer how their quote, deposit and guarantee meet the Code. A good installer will answer in writing.