Navigating the world of solar energy can seem daunting, especially when faced with terms like District Network Operators (DNOs), G98’s, G99’s and G100’s!
DNOs play a crucial role in the distribution of electricity, ensuring that power generated from your solar panels can be integrated smoothly into the national grid.
There are 14 DNOs across the UK. Each is responsible for managing and maintaining a specific geographic area.
Your solar company will need to apply to them for approval to connect your system.
This guide will explain and provide you with the confidence and knowledge to embark on your solar journey.
Introduction to District Network Operators
Role of DNOs
District Network Operators (DNOs) are essential players in the UK’s electrical infrastructure.
They are responsible for the regional electricity distribution networks that deliver power from the national grid to homes and businesses.
Unlike energy suppliers who sell electricity to consumers, DNOs manage and maintain the physical grid, handling everything from power lines to substations.
This involves ensuring the whole relevant distribution network operator’s safety, reliability, and efficiency.
When you install solar panels, the DNO assesses your connection application to determine if your generated electricity can be safely integrated into the grid.
This step prevents network overloads and ensures that any additional energy you produce can be fed back into the system.
Number of DNOs Across the Country
The UK is divided into 14 distinct regions, each managed by a separate District Network Operator (DNO). The division ensures each region receives tailored attention.
This regional approach enables more efficient management of the local grid, allowing for quicker responses to issues such as power outages or maintenance requirements.
The DNOs are regulated, meaning they operate under strict guidelines to ensure the reliability and safety of electricity supply.
Each DNO has specific responsibilities for the upkeep and development of the network to accommodate growing demands and the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar power.
Importance of DNOs for Solar Installations
When you decide to install solar panels, you must seek approval from your local DNO to connect your system to the electricity grid. This is because DNOs are responsible for assessing the impact of new connections on the existing network.
Their evaluation ensures that the electricity generated by your solar panels can be safely integrated without compromising the stability of the grid. This process prevents potential issues like voltage fluctuations or overloads that could affect both your property and the wider network.
Additionally, DNOs help facilitate the export of surplus energy generated by your solar system back to the grid, enabling you to benefit from schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee.
Navigating the DNO Application Process
Why You Must Apply
Applying to your local District Network Operator (DNO) before connecting your solar panels to the grid is a crucial step in the installation process.
This application is necessary because the DNO needs to evaluate whether the existing network can handle the additional electricity generated by your solar system.
Without this assessment, there is a risk of overloading the grid, which could lead to power quality issues or even outages.
The application process ensures that any potential technical challenges are identified and addressed in advance. This not only protects the broader network but also ensures that your solar system operates efficiently and safely.
Additionally, obtaining formal approval from the DNO is often a prerequisite for benefiting from financial incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee.
Key Differences: DNO vs Energy Company
In contrast to a DNO, an energy company, or supplier, is the entity you purchase electricity from. They handle the billing and customer service aspects, offering various tariffs and contracts to consumers.
While they provide the electricity you use, they do not own or maintain the grid infrastructure.
When installing solar panels, your dealings with the DNO focus on technical approval for grid connection, whereas interactions with your energy company involve billing adjustments and potential participation in energy and export tariff schemes.
Timeframes for Approval
The timeframes for gaining approval from a District Network Operator (DNO) can vary depending on the complexity of your solar installation and the specific requirements of your local distribution network operator.
Generally, applications for smaller systems that fall under the G98 standard, which covers micro-generation installations, can be processed quickly.
These might take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Larger systems subject to the G99 standard, which involves more detailed assessments due to their potential impact on the grid, might require several weeks to a few months for approval.
It’s advisable to account for these timeframes when planning your solar installation project. Your solar company will apply for the DNO for you.
Understanding G98, G99, and G100 Standards
What is a G98?
The G98 standard is designed for small-scale installations, typically those generating up to 16a per phase or 3.68 kW per phase, such as domestic solar panel systems.
The G98 process is streamlined to for easier connection for these smaller systems, acknowledging their minimal impact on the wider electricity grid.
When you install a micro-generation system under G98, you must notify your District Network Operator (DNO) after the system is connected, rather than before.
This is known as a “fit and inform” process, which simplifies the procedure for homeowners and small businesses. Compliance with G98 ensures that your system operates safely and efficiently, contributing to grid stability.
What is a G99?
The G99 standard governs the connection of larger generation systems to the distribution network, typically those generating more than 3.68 kW per phase.
This standard applies to installations that have a more significant impact on the local grid, such as commercial solar arrays or community energy projects.
Unlike the G98 procedure, the G99 requires a more comprehensive application process before connection, including detailed technical assessments and potentially a grid impact study.
This ensures that the system can be integrated safely without jeopardising the stability of the electricity network. The G99 process involves a formal application to the District Network Operator (DNO) before installation, who will evaluate the proposal’s feasibility and any necessary network upgrades.
Unpacking the G100
The G100 standard addresses the issue of export-limiting devices in generation systems connected to the distribution network. It is particularly relevant for installations that might produce more electricity than the local network can handle, such as large solar arrays.
When a system’s potential export exceeds the capacity of the network, the G100 standard allows for the implementation of control technologies that limit the amount of electricity exported back to the grid.
Comparing G98 and G99 Standards
Key Differences Between G98 and G99
The primary distinction between G98 and G99 standards lies in the scale of the generation systems they cover. under G98 pertains to small-scale, micro-generation systems, typically those generating up to 3.68 kW per phase, common in domestic solar panel installations.
The G99 process is more complex, requiring a detailed application and pre-installation approval from the DNO.
Final Thoughts on Solar Energy in the UK
Understanding the roles of District Network Operators (DNOs) and the significance of standards like G98 and G99 will help you make informed choices.
If you are told that your application is with the DNO you will now have a clearer idea of what is going on. Customers are not able to call their DNO for progress updates and applications can take weeks to months.