Publications

Publications & Consultation Responses

MCS undertook this consultation to refine and enhance the standards outlined in MIS 3005-D, focusing on the future of heat pump systems in homes and buildings. The consultation sought input on pivotal changes, including defining hybrid heat pump systems, adjusting the criteria for heat pump selection to potentially remove the 100% calculated heat loss requirement, and setting a new minimum of 55% peak power output for heat pumps at a 55°C flow temperature under design conditions.


The consultation presents far-reaching proposals, including phasing out polluting heating systems by 2045 and introducing rigorous energy efficiency standards. This key change is designed to lower energy bills, tackle fuel poverty, and promote healthier living spaces. Your insights are crucial in influencing these developments.


The purpose of this consultation is to seek views on proposals related to replacing the Scottish Qualifications Authority and approaches to maximize the role of inspection in supporting and improving education in Scotland. It aims to gather feedback to inform the development of the Education Bill, focusing on establishing a new qualifications body and introducing a new approach to education inspection. The consultation seeks to ensure that qualifications meet the needs of users and the system is transparent, involving stakeholders in decision-making. Additionally, it addresses improving educational outcomes, trust, and confidence in national education organizations through reform.


Consultation Submission: Clean Heat Market Mechanism

The CHHM aims to incentivise the UK’s heating industry to invest in making heat pumps an increasingly attractive and affordable choice for families and businesses.

The scheme would require fossil fuel boiler manufacturers (obligated parties) to install a certain number of heat pumps proportional to their fossil fuel boiler sales. It is intended to incentivise industry to invest and innovate throughout the supply chain.


Consultation Submission: Building Warrant Fees

This consultation aimed to gather opinions on the proposed enhancements to Scotland's building warrant fees. The objective was to reinforce the building standards system and formulate a new fee model for building warrants in Scotland.


Consultation Submission: Draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan

Between January and May 2023, a consultation from the Scottish Government on its draft Energy Strategy and Just Transition Plan saw submissions from communities, businesses and the public. Alma Economics was commissioned to analyse the 1,598 responses, which found that overall, respondents wanted a fair distribution of benefits and costs of decarbonisation, governmental support at all levels, and upskilling of the workforce.

The consultation contained 50 questions, of which SNIPEF responded to ten. To aid brevity, only outcomes to questions that SNIPEF answered have been included. The full consultation outcomes report can be found on the Scottish Government’s website.


Consultation Submission: Proposed changes to the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS)

MCS published a six-week consultation on proposals to redevelop the scheme in June, seeking views from contractors, consumers, manufacturers and independent experts on how it should shape the future of MCS. In October, MCS published the outcomes of the consultation.


Enabling Professionalism: SNIPEF Strategy 2023-25

As SNIPEF commemorates its centenary, we recognise plumbing's enduring impact on society's progress and well-being. Our new strategy aims to help us move toward a low-carbon and sustainable future, placing Northern Ireland and Scotland's plumbing and heating industries at the forefront.

Our new strategy places professionalism, advocacy, and inclusivity, at its core. With 750 member companies and 5,000+ skilled operatives, we amplify our industry's voice and influence. We spearhead the nation's low-carbon ambitions by equipping professionals, promoting green solutions, and leading in safety-critical endeavours.


SNIPEF Annual Review 2022

A review of SNIPEF in 2022, including its financial summary, an introduction from President Jim Butter and a corporate review from Fiona Hodgson, Chief Executive.


Best Practice Guide: Advice to help contractors and sub-contractors improve their management of building contracts.

(Published by the Construction Industry Collective Voice)

Experts in the industry have prepared this Best Practice Guide to provide real-life examples of improving practice across the entire contractual chain.

Best practice advice covers important areas, such as:

  • Tender qualifications
  • Contract amendments
  • Payment schedules
  • Payment applications
  • Variations
  • Retentions
  • Fluctuations
  • Notices
  • Conflict Avoidance Process (CAP)

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Research: Payment and cashflow in construction

This research, published by the Construction Industry Collective Voice, was conducted to help gain an accurate picture of the current financial landscape in the Scottish construction industry.

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