What is a DNO application?
If you’re considering having solar panels installed, you may have heard the term “DNO application”. What does DNO stand for, what is a DNO application, why do you need one, and how long will it take?
This guide gives you all the answers.
What does DNO stand for?
DNO stands for Distribution Network Operator: a company that owns a part of the infrastructure of the electrical grid (think power lines, cables, and all of the physical elements that carry electricity into your home). There are many different DNOs around the UK, and you can check which one operates in your area using the Energy Networks Association website.
What is a DNO application?
A DNO application is a formal request that must be submitted to your local DNO when you want to install solar panels on your home or building. This application lets the DNO know that your building will be generating its own electricity and possibly sending some of it back into the power grid.
There are different types of DNO application forms. Which one you require depends on the solar PV system that you are having installed:
- G98 (Connect and Notify): This is for smaller systems, typically under 3.68 kW per phase. The application can be submitted after installation, and the process is generally quick, often taking just a few days for the DNO to acknowledge the notification.
- G99 (Apply to Connect): This is required for larger systems, above 3.68 kW per phase. You must submit the application form and receive approval before installation.
Your solar PV installer will usually be able to submit the DNO application for you.
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Why do you need to submit a DNO application?
Simple: it’s a legal requirement. Why is it a legal requirement? Due to the way a Solar PV installation works.
Solar PV works by converting sunlight into electricity. Sometimes, your solar panels generate more electricity than you require. When this happens, the “extra” electricity, called surplus energy, doesn’t go to waste. Instead, it’s sent back into the national electricity grid.
The grid is a huge network that supplies electricity to homes and businesses across the country. When your surplus energy goes to the grid, it can be used by other people who need electricity at that time.
This is generally a good thing, and you might even get credit or payments for the surplus energy you send to the grid. (This is done through schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) in the UK).
However, adding your solar energy to the grid can also cause issues, like voltage spikes and power cuts, when the local electrical infrastructure isn’t strong enough to accommodate the extra energy you’re pushing into the grid.
As solar power is becoming increasingly popular, more and more people and businesses are applying to install solar panels.
All of this extra energy must be carefully monitored by DNOs to avoid disruptions to the local electricity network: this is why you’re required to submit a DNO application before installing a solar PV system.
How long does the DNO application take?
The time it takes to put together and submit a DNO application typically depends on the complexity of the solar PV system. The installer needs to collect all the necessary details about your solar system, such as the number of panels, their capacity, and whether you’re installing any additional equipment like battery storage.
Once the forms are filled out, the installer submits the application to the DNO. This is usually done electronically, so the submission itself is quick, often just a matter of minutes.
In our experience, after the forms have been submitted, the application can take between 9 and 11 weeks. This will vary depending on the type of application (G98 or G99) and the specific DNO involved. In some cases, if the network needs significant upgrades or studies, it may take longer than 11 weeks.
It’s important to understand the role of a DNO application when you’re thinking about installing solar panels. This application is a necessary step to ensure your solar PV system can safely connect to the national grid, letting you generate your own electricity and send any extra power back to the network.
Depending on the size of your system, you’ll either need a G98 or G99 application, with processing times that can range from a few days to several weeks.
Since the process — from gathering information and getting approval to having the panels installed — can take some time, it’s a good idea to start the DNO application early. This is particularly helpful if you want to take full advantage of solar power during the sunnier spring and summer months.
By getting your application in ahead of time, you can ensure your solar panels are ready to go when you need them most, helping you save on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint as soon as possible.
Want to know more? Explore our blog or the Solar Panel podcast.