City Plumbing has partnered with VitoEnergy to launch a new heat pump installation umbrella scheme, offering non-Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) accredited installers a fully supported route to access government grants plus added benefits, including trade account prices and financial flexibility.
Through the partnership, installers can operate under VitoEnergy’s MCS accreditation, which reduces paperwork while allowing their customers to qualify for the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) grant. VitoEnergy stated that it offers a fully comprehensive support package, guiding installers through every stage of the process. From system design, heat loss calculations and free software to Distribution Network Operator (DNO) applications, it cited that installers can gain hands-on assistance to build confidence and develop their heat pump business. VitoEnergy also offers an optional in-person site visit on the first day of installation.
A benefit of the partnership is that installers can buy materials from City Plumbing at their usual trade rates, the company said. Installers will have complete price transparency on materials and all costs, it added, including the umbrella scheme fees, which can be placed on their City Plumbing credit account, giving installers up to 30 days to settle payments for better cash flow.
Jez Climas, head of business development for Renewables at City Plumbing, said: “More and more installers are completing heat pump training, but there are still barriers to making installations an everyday, profitable part of their business. Whether those barriers are the financial and administrative complexities of MCS accreditation, the confidence to apply their training to actual jobs or financial flexibility, this scheme solves those issues.
“We looked long and hard for the right partner and chose VitoEnergy because they offer full, legitimate support for installers and do it with care and attention. Combining VitoEnergy’s end-to-end help, with our product range, availability and account services, there’s everything installers need to run a successful heat pump business.”
Currently, the MCS umbrella scheme is available through a select number of City Plumbing branches across the South of England up to the north Midlands.
Patrick Wheeler from VitoEnergy added: “We’ve supported hundreds of heat pump projects since our inception, but this partnership takes the support for installers to the next level. With City Plumbing onboard, installers can source materials at their usual trade rates and benefit from extended credit terms, making cash flow much easier to manage.
“Our team provides expert guidance from system design to commissioning – which always takes place in person – ensuring every installation is completed to the highest standard. Together, we’re giving installers the tools, knowledge and financial freedom to confidently grow their businesses in the renewables market.”