MCS accredited renewable energy available to farmers

Leading rural supplier Countrywide has been awarded Microgeneration Scheme (MCS) accreditation for the supply and installation of renewable energy biomass boilers.

MCS is an internationally recognised quality assurance scheme and by obtaining accreditation Countrywide have demonstrated their commitment to meeting high standards within the renewable industry sector, both for the business and more importantly their agricultural customers.

Countrywide is one of the first major rural retailers to be awarded MCS accreditation says Sally New, Renewable Energy Development Manager. We are in the unique position to offer farmers the complete renewable energy package including a wide range of biomass boilers, expert advice on what types of boiler will suit individual circumstances, MCS accredited installation, fuel supply plus ongoing technical support and assistance.

Using renewable energy can result in the following benefits:

• Cost savings, potentially reducing fuel bills by up to 30%

• Meeting the proposed Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) payment specifications

• Helps a farm take important steps to reducing their carbon footprint

Benefits of MCS installation from Countrywide:

• A survey of your home, business or farm.

• Full bespoke package from qualified experts covering design, installation and after care service

• Countrywide are a rural based supplier who understand the needs of the rural community and are able to provide the complete solution, including fuel supply

• Reduced energy costs – potential to save up to 30% of your fuel bills plus opportunity for extra income from energy generated

• Low carbon or carbon neutral – cut your CO2 emissions

• Access financial assistance to help with the cost of installation

• Beat the fluctuating cost of fossil fuels costs which are predicted to continue to rise

Gaining the MCS accreditation gives our farming customers confidence in our biomass technology and installation capability in advance of the proposed introduction of the RHI payments. When details of the RHI are finalised our customers will not miss out on any payments they are entitled too by not being MCS accredited continues Sally. Many of us are aware of the benefits of switching to renewable energy, although are not sure if its within our reach. Countrywide are able to offer their knowledge of the rural sector to design a bespoke biomass package that works. MCS accreditation requires an annual assessment to maintain the high standards we aim to provide concludes Sally

Countrywide will be exhibiting at Energy Now Expo 2011 at the Malvern Showground 16^th and 17^th February 2011

Countrywide is the UKs leading supplier of quality products and services supporting the rural community.

Countrywide has a reputation for delivering a high-quality, personalised service, by its 1,000 experienced and knowledgeable staff.

Focusing on three specialist areas – Agriculture, Energy and Retail; 2009/10 was Countrywides third consecutive year reporting record operating profits.

In Agriculture, Countrywides expertise offers products and related services for the livestock, arable and turf and amenity sectors, delivered through 40 farming specialists and an in-house support team.

Countrywide has over 50 years experience of providing Energy and now offers a wide range of fuel products and support services, including autogas, cylinders, LP Gas and a range of bio-renewable fuels.

Countrywides 48 country Retail stores in England and Wales, and a 24/7 on-line service, sell a vast range of rural goods to a growing group of customers, including over 40,000 account holders. In-store experts focus on supporting customers with a focus on equine, agriculture and pet care.

• Find more general information about Countrywide at www.countrywidefarmers.co.uk .

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