Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
How do I apply for STA membership and what are the costs?
Any company who is considering joining the STA can download a Membership Pack by clicking here.
Details of subscription rates are included in the Membership Pack, along with the Benefits of Membership and Criteria for Membership. The subscription rates varies with size of company and type of company.
What happens if I fail to pay my membership on time?
All members are given a 60 day period to pay subscription rates for membership. Once this has lapsed a late payment fee will be occured to cover our administration costs. The fees vary according to type of membership and are as follows;
Full Members £55+ VAT
Provisional Members £30+ VAT
Associate Members £30+ VAT
Associate Not for Profit and Individual £15+ VAT
How do I gain certification through MCS?
MCS stands for the Microgeneration Certification Scheme and is an independant assessment programme which aims to evaluate products and installers against a pre-determined standard of criteria enabling consumers to have confidence in the products and installers which they use. Certification is obtained through independant Certification Bodies, which have all been accredited by UKAS. Membership is not compulsory, however, it is necessary if your company wishes to offer grant incentives to your customers.
The STA currently runs a MCS Made Easy course to help companies with the application process of the MCS.
More information can be found on the MCS here.
Does the STA run any training courses?
Yes. Currently the STA has developed a MCS Made Easy Course which helps companies with the MCS application process. These are run throughout the year, for information on the next course, click here.
The STA endorses a number of Solar Thermal Installer courses, which have been developed in conjunction with the STA to ensure high levels of competency on completion. For more information on these courses and general training for the Solar Thermal Industry, please click here.
Every year we hold an AGM and a Conference, Exhibition and Dinner event. Other events which we are holding, attending or supporting can be found under our latest events section.
Where can I find the latest news on developments regarding the solar industry and solar technology?
Our website is continuously updated with all the latest developments in the Solar Thermal Industry, including international and national publicaitons, new legislation, technical reports, training and industry events. Most of this information is summerised on the Latest News section of the website.
At present the Solar Trade Association represents the solar thermal (hot water) industry in the UK and its members consist of manufacturers, suppliers and installers of solar thermal systems. Some of our member companies do install PV systems as well as solar thermal and may be able to assist you.
For more information on PV please go to the Renewable Energy Association.
What qualifications do I need to become accredited to perform solar installations?