DNOs are a key part of installing solar panels. Not sure what a DNO is? Well, let’s take a look.

What is a DNO Application?

A Distribution Network Operator is known as a DNO. These are regulated and licensed companies in charge of delivering power from the National Grid to your property. In the UK, there are 14 separate district networks, or DNO regions, that are owned by 6 different groups:

Electricity North West
Limited (ENWL)
Northern Powergrid
Scottish and Southern Energy (SEE)
ScottishPower Energy Networks (SPEN)
UK Power Networks (UKPN)
Western Power Distribution (WPD)

If you are planning on installing solar panels or any other form of energy equipment that will be connected to the National Grid, your local DNO must be notified. Your DNO must be informed in order to precisely calculate and monitor the amount of electricity required for your home or business.

At NE Solar we apply for the DNO on your behalf, so you don’t need to worry about the papaerwork, it’s all taken care of.

Different Types of DNO Applications

There are many different DNO applications due to the various sizes of solar PV systems. The size of your particular PV system is determined by the AC inverter rating and not the peak DC rating of the panels, which is something to keep in mind.

There are two types of DNO applications: “connect and notify” or “apply to connect”. Make sure you submit the correct one.

DNO G98 Applications

In order to install any small-scale Distributed Generation (DG) equipment at your property, you must speak with a licensed solar PV installer, such as North East Solar. A small-scale system is defined as a system size of less than 16A per phase. This can also be described as 3.68kWp for a single-phase supply or 11.04kWp for a three-phase supply.

If you are unclear about the size of your system, we recommend you contact your solar panel installer.

Your chosen solar installer will perform an Adequacy of Supply (AoS) check to determine whether your current energy supply is sufficient for the increased electricity load. If your electricity supply is sufficient, your solar installer is able to install your solar panels without previous approval from the DNO. However, you must inform your DNO within 28 days of installing the solar PV system. A system of this size is unlikely to result in any load concerns on your current local grid infrastructure.

If your solar installer deems your current electrical supply to be insufficient, your installer might need to enhance your electrical supply before installing any solar panels.

DNO G99 Applications

You must submit a DNO application before installing any large-scale solar PV systems. A large-scale system is defined as a system that draws more than 16A per phase. It is necessary for the grid to assess whether your local distributor can manage the added load. The DNO’s examination of your application may take 8 to 12 weeks. Any Distributed Generation equipment with a rating of 50kW or greater, must have completed a Standard Application Form (SAF).

Type of DNO Application Outcomes

You will receive a connect offer following the evaluation of your DNO application. This covers the connection’s maximum specification as well as any applicable connection fees. There are typically three different outcomes.

Your application is approved and the size of your system has been authorised by your DNO. As a result, there won’t be any additional fees or changes to your installation and your chosen solar installer can proceed to the installation phase.
An export restriction is needed as the system size is limited to a certain kWp AC rating. There might be a small additional charge for a witness test. This is where your solar provider makes sure a restriction has been put in place.
Your supply size needs to be increased from a single-phase to a three-phase system to be able to progress with the solar panel installation. Depending on the site, the extra fee could be expensive.

If approval has not been granted by the DNO, installing an export power management system might be necessary to restrict the amount of electricity the PV system sends to the grid.

Quick Questions

Here at North East Solar, we can handle your DNO applications for you! If you are looking to install anything solar related, contact our team at 0191 500 1154 or fill out our instant quote form.

Do I Have to Apply for a DNO?

At NE Solar we will apply for the DNO on your behalf, so you can leave the paperwork to us.

You must get the DNOs approval in any situation where you are making changes to your electrical system (unless you are installing an off-grid system). The installation must comply with local grid standards as you are connecting directly to the grid. This is due to the increased demand in electric-powered assets like electric vehicles. Notifying your local DNO is crucial to manage the increased electrical load and stress on the National Grid. This is important to guarantee effective local supply and minimising local black-outs.

When Do I Need to Apply for A DNO Application?

We will apply for the DNO on your behalf, so rest assured this will be taken care of.

Any significant changes to your electrical connection requires usnto submit a DNO application to your local DNO provider. Significant changes can include installing:

Solar photovoltaic panels
EV charging points
Battery storage
Heat pumps

Why Do I Need A DNO Certificate For Solar Panels?

In addition to reducing stress on the National Grid, you will not be able to receive any SEG payments from the National Grid when selling your surplus energy.

How Long Does a DNO Application Take to Receive a Response?

Generally, fast tracked G99 applications take 10-15 days, and full G99 applications can take up to 45 days.