Flexi-Orb Scheme

Flexible Energy Installation

Flexi-Orb Certification – A Leading Alternative to MCS

The Flexi-Orb Installation Scheme is a nationally recognised certification for installers of Solar Photovoltaic (PV) systems, Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS), and Electric Vehicle Charge Points (EVCP). It provides an equally robust alternative to MCS, ensuring installations meet industry best practices, safety regulations, and consumer protection standards.

As a competitor to MCS, Flexi-Orb offers a trusted pathway to certification, giving contractors, housing associations, and local authorities access to funding opportunities, enhanced credibility, and compliance assurance in the renewable energy sector.

By becoming Flexi-Orb certified through NetRet Group, installers can:
Demonstrate high-quality installation standards
Qualify for government and private funding initiatives
Strengthen consumer confidence with industry-backed assurance
Gain a competitive edge in the growing renewable energy market

By becoming Flexi-Orb certified through NetRet Group, installers demonstrate their competency, quality assurance, and commitment to consumer protection. Certification includes a structured process covering application, assessment, site audits, and ongoing compliance monitoring to uphold the highest standards in renewable energy installations.

 

Application Status

NetRet Group is currently in the application process for Flexi-Orb Certification and is accepting applicants to go through the initial application and audit stage with us.

While we await full UKAS accreditation for the Flexi-Orb scheme, NetRet is offering initial certification assessments under an unaccredited but compliant status, in line with Flexi-Orb's permitted operational arrangements. All assessments will be conducted in accordance with the INS-001 Installation Scheme requirements, and we will keep applicants informed throughout the process as our accreditation progresses.

Benefits of Flexi-Orb Compliance for Contractors, Housing Associations, and Local Authorities

Becoming Flexi-Orb certified offers a range of benefits to contractors, housing associations, and local authorities, particularly in accessing funding, ensuring quality compliance, and improving consumer confidence in renewable energy installations.

Benefits for Contractors:

Access to Funding Opportunities – Many government-backed and private funding schemes require installations to be completed by certified professionals, making Flexi-Orb certification essential for eligibility.
Market Advantage & Credibility – Demonstrating compliance with an industry-recognised scheme builds trust with clients and stakeholders.
Compliance with Regulations & Standards – Ensures adherence to high-quality installation practices, reducing the risk of penalties, rework, or certification withdrawal.
Consumer Protection & Assurance – Provides customers with confidence in installation quality, backed by recognised consumer protection mechanisms.
Competitive Edge in Tenders – Many procurement contracts prioritise certified contractors, increasing business opportunities.

Benefits for Housing Associations & Local Authorities:

Eligibility for Green Energy & Retrofit Funding – Many funding initiatives, such as ECO (Energy Company Obligation), require work to be carried out by certified installers. Flexi-Orb compliance ensures eligibility for financial support.
Quality Assurance & Compliance – Guarantees that installations meet industry and regulatory standards, reducing risks and potential liabilities.
Increased Consumer & Tenant Confidence – Certified installations help assure tenants and stakeholders that work is completed to a high standard with safety and longevity in mind.
Streamlined Monitoring & Reporting – Flexi-Orb’s structured assessment and audit process ensures transparency, making it easier to meet regulatory reporting requirements.
Supports Net-Zero & Sustainability Goals – Helps organisations align with government initiatives focused on reducing carbon emissions through renewable energy adoption.

Funding Access & Compliance

Flexi-Orb compliance is often a prerequisite for accessing government grants, local authority funding, and housing retrofit programs, ensuring that only accredited and competent professionals undertake installations.

The Process

The Certification Process

Step 1 – Application & Initial Review

  1. Please ensure your quality management system aligns with Flexi-Orb requirements. As a certification body, we cannot provide consultancy services.
  2. Complete our online application form, providing details of your business, services, and energy solutions.
  3. Our Flexi-Orb Quality & Certification Team will contact you to confirm your application details.
  4. You will receive a digital agreement for signature and an invoice (Invoices expire after 30 days, requiring re-application if not paid).
  5. Once satisfied, please sign and return the Flexi-Orb Agreement to NetRet.
  6. Upon receipt of payment, we will proceed to Step 2.

Step 2 – Assessment & Audit

  1. NetRet will assign a Flexi-Orb Assessor to review your documentation and assess compliance with scheme requirements.
  2. You will be granted access to NetRet’s dynamic dashboard to track your certification progress.
  3. An office audit will be scheduled and conducted in person at the location from which installation activities are managed, in line with Flexi-Orb Scheme requirements. This assessment reviews your Quality Management System (QMS) and operational processes.
  4. Following the office audit, you will receive an audit report outlining any findings.
  5. If no major non-conformities are found, you will proceed to Step 3.

Step 3 – On-Site Inspection & Certification

  1. We will arrange a site visit to assess a live installation and confirm adherence to Flexi-Orb installation standards.
  2. Upon successful completion, assuming no major issues, a 12-month certification will be issued.
  3. Ongoing surveillance audits (pre-/on-site/post-installation) will be conducted to maintain certification validity, as required by Flexi-Orb.
  4. An annual review will ensure compliance and alignment with installation volumes.

Standard Terms & Conditions

These Terms & Conditions serve as a standard framework for the Flexi-Orb Certification Scheme provided by NetRet Group. Individual applicants will receive a tailored agreement based on their specific business needs, installation scope, and certification requirements.

Terms & Conditions of Service

1. Introduction

1.1 These Terms & Conditions (T&Cs) govern the application, assessment, and certification process for installers seeking Flexi-Orb certification through NetRet Group.
1.2 By applying for certification, the applicant ("Installer") agrees to comply with the requirements outlined in this document.


2. Scope of Certification

2.1 The certification applies to the installation of Solar PV, Electrical Energy Storage Systems (EESS), and Electric Vehicle Charge Points (EVCP) in accordance with Flexi-Orb scheme standards.
2.2 Certification is granted based on the successful completion of all assessment stages and remains valid for 12 months, subject to ongoing compliance.
2.3 Certification does not cover product warranties or guarantees, which remain the responsibility of the installer and manufacturer.


3. Application & Fees

3.1 Installers must submit a completed application form with all required business and technical details.
3.2 An invoice will be issued upon acceptance of the application, and payment must be made within 30 days to proceed.
3.3 Fees cover application processing, audits, and certification but are non-refundable once the assessment process has begun.


4. Assessment & Certification Process

4.1 Stage 1 – Office Audit

  • A review of the Installer’s quality management system (QMS), insurance, and operational procedures will be conducted. In line with Flexi-Orb Scheme requirements, this audit must be conducted in person at the location from which installation activities are managed.
  • Non-conformities identified must be rectified within six weeks to proceed to Stage 2.

4.2 Stage 2 – On-Site Assessment

  • A technical site audit will be conducted to evaluate a live installation in compliance with Flexi-Orb technical requirements.
  • If significant issues (major non-conformities) are found, a re-audit may be required at additional cost.

4.3 Stage 3 – Certification Decision

  • Certification is awarded based on successful assessment completion.
  • Certified Installers must comply with ongoing surveillance audits to maintain certification.
  • NetRet Group reserves the right to suspend or withdraw certification if compliance requirements are not met.

5. Installer Responsibilities

5.1 Installers must maintain accurate records of all installations, including customer details, technical specifications, and compliance documentation.
5.2 All marketing and branding related to Flexi-Orb certification must be accurate and not misleading.
5.3 The Installer agrees to allow audits, spot checks, and compliance reviews as part of ongoing certification surveillance.
5.4 If using subcontractors, the Installer remains fully responsible for their compliance with Flexi-Orb standards.


6. Use of Certification & Logo

6.1 Certified Installers may use the Flexi-Orb certification mark as per the guidelines provided upon certification approval.
6.2 The certification mark may not be used:

  • Before certification is granted
  • On products (only on marketing materials related to installation services)
  • In a misleading or deceptive manner
    6.3 NetRet Group reserves the right to withdraw branding permissions if misuse is identified.

7. Suspension & Withdrawal of Certification

7.1 Certification may be suspended or withdrawn for reasons including but not limited to:

  • Failure to comply with Flexi-Orb scheme requirements
  • Non-payment of fees for audits, certification, or surveillance
  • Significant non-conformities found during audits
  • Misuse of the certification mark or false claims of certification
    7.2 In cases of suspension, the Installer will be given a specified timeframe to correct issues. Failure to do so may result in full withdrawal of certification.

8. Complaints, Appeals & Disputes

8.1 Installers may appeal certification decisions within 30 days of receiving an audit report or withdrawal notice.
8.2 Complaints regarding the certification process must be submitted in writing to NetRet Group for review.
8.3 If disputes cannot be resolved internally, they may be referred to an independent arbitration process.


9. Liability & Indemnity

9.1 NetRet Group provides certification services in good faith but does not accept liability for any business loss, reputational damage, or financial impact resulting from the Installer’s failure to comply with Flexi-Orb standards.
9.2 The Installer agrees to indemnify NetRet Group against claims arising from installation faults, warranty disputes, or customer complaints related to their certified services.


10. Data Protection & Confidentiality

10.1 All Installer data collected during the application and assessment process will be handled in compliance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation).
10.2 Confidential business information shared during the certification process will not be disclosed to third parties unless required by law or the Flexi-Orb scheme.


11. Governing Law

11.1 These Terms & Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England & Wales.
11.2 Any legal disputes arising under this agreement shall be settled in UK courts.


12. Certification Status Notice

NetRet Group is currently in the application process for Flexi-Orb Certification and is accepting applicants to go through the initial application and audit stage with us.

Flexi-Orb Certification Price List

Option 1: Comprehensive Certification & Preparation Package

Flexi-Orb Certification Audit + Preparation & Guidance
📌 Price: £3,000 + VAT | Fast-Track: £4,000 + VAT

This package provides both comprehensive guidance and certification. You’ll receive structured support to ensure compliance with Flexi-Orb standards, followed by a formal certification audit.

Package Includes:

1x Technology Certification – Certification for one renewable technology (Solar PV, EESS, or EVCP). Additional technologies available at extra cost.
1x Office Audit (Full Day) – Detailed review of quality management systems and compliance documentation.
1x External Audit (Full Day) – Site-based audit verifying installation compliance with Flexi-Orb standards.
90-Day Non-Conformance Correction Window – Opportunity to address identified issues before certification closure.
Flexi-Orb Registration – Official registration under the Flexi-Orb scheme, demonstrating compliance with industry standards.
Certification Closure – Formal issuance upon successful completion.

Additional Preparation Support Included:

1x Pre-Assessment (Full Day) – Identifies gaps in your quality management system before the audit.
Certification Dashboard Access – Online portal to track certification readiness.
Document Guidance – Examples and best practice materials.
2x Quarterly NetRet Member Meetings – Industry insights and networking opportunities.
Technical Support – Access to a dedicated Flexi-Orb advisor.
Champion Training – "Flexi-Orb Compliance – Laying the Foundation" course included.

Fast-Track Service Explanation:

The Fast-Track service accelerates your certification process, prioritising your audits and assessments for the fastest possible route to Flexi-Orb certification.

This service allows for more tailored scheduling of audit and assessment dates, subject to assessor availability. It does not alter the rigour, duration, or requirements of the certification process, which remains fully compliant with Flexi-Orb and ISO/IEC 17065:2012 standards.

📌 Limited Fast-Track slots available each month—book early to avoid delays.

 📌 Note: Overnight stay and travel expenses are not included.

Option 2: Certification-Only Package

📌 Price: £1,950 + VAT | Fast-Track: £2,800 + VAT

This is a straightforward, independent audit to confirm compliance with Flexi-Orb standards, without additional preparation support.

Package Includes:

1x Technology Certification – Certification for one renewable technology (Solar PV, EESS, or EVCP). Additional technologies available at extra cost.
1x Office Audit (Full Day) – Detailed compliance audit of your quality management system and documentation.
1x External Audit (Full Day) – Verification of installation compliance through on-site inspection.
90-Day Non-Conformance Correction Window – Opportunity to resolve any non-conformances before closure.
Flexi-Orb Registration – Inclusion in the Flexi-Orb scheme upon successful certification.
Certification Closure – Formal certification issuance upon compliance verification.

Fast-Track Service Explanation:

The Fast-Track service prioritises your audit scheduling to minimise waiting times, ensuring a quicker route to certification.
📌 Limited Fast-Track slots available each month—early booking is highly recommended. 

📌 Note: Overnight stay and travel expenses are not included. 

Service Timescales & Fast-Track Option

Standard Service:

📌 Typical Delivery Time: 3 to 6 months from application to final certification.
📌 Timelines depend on:
✔ Your preparation level
✔ Audit scheduling
✔ Responsiveness in addressing any non-conformances

Fast-Track Service:

📌 Accelerated Delivery Time: 8 to 12 weeks from application to final certification.
📌 Includes:
Priority scheduling for audits
Faster assessment turnaround

📢 Important Note:
Achieving the Fast-Track timeline depends on your responsiveness, timely submission of documentation, and corrective actions. Delays caused by incomplete applications or slow issue resolution may affect certification timelines. 

Ongoing Certification & Additional Fees

Additional Technology Certification – £250 per additional technology (must be included in the main audit).

Extension to Scope – £750 for adding a new technology post-application (includes assessment).

Surveillance Assessment Fee – £375 per installation audit (pre-installation, onsite, and post-installation checks).

Annual Renewal - Office Assessment – £650 for a full-day office audit to maintain certification.

Annual Renewal - Surveillance Per Technology – £350 for a half-day surveillance assessment per certified technology.

Cancellation Fees:

  • £375 for cancellations with less than 2 days' notice.
  • £245 for cancellations with 2-21 days' notice.
  • £430 for failure to attend a scheduled audit (void fee).

Additional Assessment Fees:

  • £430 for an additional half-day assessment.
  • £65 for admin changes (e.g., company details or Technical Representative changes).

Annual Flexi-Orb Status Renewal – £100 to maintain Flexi-Orb registration.

Non-Conformance Re-Audit Fee – £975 if non-conformances are not resolved within 90 days.

📌 Note: Overnight stays and travel expenses are not included in the fees above. 

Payment & Terms

📌 Payment Due Dates: Payment due within 30 days of invoice unless otherwise stated.
📌 Late Payment Penalties: Interest charges may apply for overdue payments.
📌 Refund Policy: Subject to terms outlined in the agreement.
📌 Confidentiality: All transactions and information are handled with strict confidentiality.
📌 Legal & Contractual Obligations: Both parties must adhere to contractual terms.

📢 Important Notice:
NetRet Group is currently in the application process for Flexi-Orb Certification and is accepting applicants to go through the initial application and audit stage with us.

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