YOKOHAMA, Japan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--BRE Global and TUV Rheinland have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide access to the UK Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) approval for manufacturers of photovoltaic systems.

MCS is a UK-based scheme which certifies microgeneration technologies against robust criteria. Product manufacturers of photovoltaic (PV) panels who use TUV Rheinland for testing and certification will be able to apply for MCS approval from BRE Global under a streamlined system.

Jörg Althaus, Head of the Photovoltaic Modules Qualification division at TUV Rheinland in Germany said: “The partnership with BRE Global is an important step towards expanding our global network of test services and certifications for the solar industry. Our mission is to offer manufacturers one-stop testing services with certification for all relevant markets worldwide. Our co-operation with BRE Global allows us to achieve that goal”.

David Gall, MCS Scheme Manager at BRE Global, said: “Certification by BRE Global under the MCS is vital for PV manufacturers who wish to demonstrate the quality of their products. This agreement with TUV Rheinland provides access to the MCS programme for manufacturers around the world.”

MCS certification of PV panels consists of two main stages:

• Factory production control in accordance with MCS 010. TUV Rheinland will conduct a factory inspection visit, including an assessment to determine compliance.
• Product compliance to MCS 005 (which includes EN 61215 for crystalline PV and EN 61646 for thin film PV. Testing conducted by TUV Rheinland at one of their 6 accredited international laboratories can be considered for compliance with MCS 005.

Whilst TUV Rheinland will undertake the testing and factory inspection, BRE Global will provide the final quality review for the UK market.

About BRE Global:

BRE Global Limited (incorporating LPCB & BREEAM) is a UK-based independent third party approvals body offering certification of fire, security and sustainability products and services to an international market. BRE Global’s mission is to ‘Protect People, Property and the Planet’ and is a trading subsidiary of the BRE Trust, the registered research and education charity which owns the BRE Group.

About TUV Rheinland

TUV Rheinland is a global leader in independent inspection services, founded 140 years ago. The Group maintains a presence at around 500 locations in 61 countries with 14,500 employees. Annual turnover is EUR 1.3 billion. The independent experts stand for quality and safety for people, the environment, and technology in nearly all aspects of life. TUV Rheinland inspects technical equipment, products and services, oversees projects and helps to shape processes for companies. Its experts train people in a wide range of careers and industries. To this end, TUV Rheinland employs a global network of approved labs, testing and education centres. Website: www.tuv.com