DNO Notification Guide (G98) for UK Plug-in Solar | Solar Energy Advantages Blog

Do I need to notify my DNO for 800W solar?

Yes. In the UK, all grid-tied generating equipment must be registered with your Distribution Network Operator (DNO). However, under G98 rules, systems up to 800W (or 3.48A per phase) utilize the 'Connect & Notify' process. You are legally allowed to install the kit first and submit notification within 28 days.

Regulation

G98/1

Deadline

28 Days

Cost

Free

Max Power

800W/3.48A

UK G98 Connect and Notify Compliance Guide

UK electricity networks require registration within 28 days of plugging in an 800W micro-generation kit. This guide details the step-by-step submission process.

What is G98? Connect & Notify Registration

G98 is the specific industry standard governing the connection of micro-generators in the United Kingdom. Unlike commercial solar installations, an 800W balcony kit fits into the micro-generation exemption, which permits consumer self-installation. Under these rules, you do not require advance grid permission to connect; instead, you submit the official G98 commissioning document afterwards.

Regulatory compliance: The 28-Day Deadline

Submitting your G98 documentation within 28 days of initial commissioning is a standard grid requirement. Failure to notify constitutes a breach of the national Distribution Code, which could complicate property transactions, smart meter export arrangements, or home insurance coverage.

Step 1: Obtain Your Type Test Certificates

You cannot submit a G98 notification without matching Type Test Certification for your inverter. This engineering certificate certifies that the micro-inverter (e.g., Hoymiles, EcoFlow, or Anker) is equipped with anti-islanding protection, meaning it shuts down within milliseconds of a power failure to prevent current backfeeding into the grid.

  • Ensure your retail kit includes standard UK G98 compliance certificates.
  • Keep the PDF copies downloaded for your records, as DNO portaling systems require uploading them.

Step 2: Identify your DNO (UK Power Grid Operator)

Your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) operates the physical cabling in your region. They are completely separate companies from your utility bill provider (e.g., Octopus, British Gas, or E.ON). Find your designated DNO below:

UK DNO Network Lookup Tool

Enter your postcode below to immediately identify your local electricity network operator, find direct G98 application portals, contact emails, and user-reported processing timelines.

Or select your region network manually:

Step 3: Complete and Submit the Form

Standard G98 notification forms require direct hardware definitions. You will typically need:

  • System Address: The primary residence where the kit generates power.
  • Inverter Model & Serial Number: Standard identifiers derived from your physical inverter casing.
  • Commissioning Date: The official date the kit was first connected to your home circuit.

Grid Capacity Accountability

While plug-and-play kits represent very low micro-generation capacities, electricity network operators use G98 registration data to prevent power quality spikes and grid imbalance. Active G98 registration is also a required legal step before you can establish utility Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs to receive payouts for excess energy backfed into the grid.

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