One of the steps that catches people off guard when setting up plug-in solar is the G98 notification. It sounds bureaucratic, but the process is usually quick and straightforward. Here is what it involves and why it matters.
What G98 is
G98 is the engineering recommendation that governs how small electricity generators connect to the distribution grid in the UK. It was originally written for small rooftop solar systems and has been updated to cover plug-in solar kits. The standard ensures that small generators are safely integrated into the local grid and that the network operator knows about them.
The requirement sits with the homeowner or installer, not the kit manufacturer. It is your responsibility to notify your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before connecting the system.
Who your DNO is
Your DNO is the company that manages the electricity distribution network in your area. It is not the same as your energy supplier. There are six main DNOs in Great Britain, each covering a different geographic region. Your electricity bill should show which one covers your area, or you can look it up using your postcode on the Energy Networks Association website.
How to make the notification
Most DNOs now have an online portal for G98 submissions. You will need the following information: your address and postcode, the make and model of your microinverter, the maximum output of the system in watts, and confirmation that the equipment meets the relevant technical standards.
The notification does not require approval. You submit the form, keep a copy of the confirmation, and you are compliant. The process typically takes around 15 minutes. Some kit suppliers, including EcoFlow, provide G98 submission guidance as part of their installation documentation.
Do you need to notify before or after installation?
The G98 requirement is to notify before or immediately after connecting the system. Most people submit the form on the same day as installation. The important thing is that you do it, and that you keep the confirmation. If you ever sell your home, the G98 record forms part of the documentation for the solar system.
What happens if you do not notify
Not notifying your DNO is a breach of the grid connection conditions. In practice, enforcement for small domestic systems has been minimal, but the risk is not worth taking. The process is straightforward, costs nothing, and leaves you with a clean paper trail. Just do it.