G98 Notification: Step-by-Step Guide for UK Homeowners

Every plug-in solar system connected to the UK grid requires a G98 notification to your Distribution Network Operator (DNO). This isn't an application — you don't need permission. It's a notification: you tell them, they acknowledge, you're done.

The process takes 10-15 minutes. Here's the complete walkthrough.

What G98 Is

G98 is the Engineering Recommendation that governs small-scale generation connected to the UK distribution network. It applies to all generators up to 3.68kW per phase — which includes every legal plug-in solar system (capped at 800W).

The notification tells your DNO that a small generator has been connected at your address. This lets them maintain accurate records of generation on their network, which helps with voltage management and network planning.

When to Notify

You must submit the G98 notification within 28 days of connecting your plug-in solar system. There's no requirement to notify before installation — the 28-day clock starts when the system is first energised (plugged in and generating).

In practice, many owners submit the notification during or immediately after installation. There's no downside to notifying early.

Finding Your DNO

Your DNO depends on your geographical location. The UK has six DNOs:

• UK Power Networks (UKPN) — London, South East, East of England
• Western Power Distribution (WPD) / National Grid ED — South West, Midlands, South Wales
• Electricity North West (ENWL) — North West England
• Northern Powergrid (NPG) — North East England, Yorkshire
• Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) — Central and Southern Scotland, North Wales, Merseyside
• Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) — Northern Scotland, Central Southern England

If you're unsure which DNO covers your address, search "DNO checker" on the Energy Networks Association website — enter your postcode and it returns your DNO.

The Notification Process

Step 1: Find the G98 Form

Each DNO has its own online portal for G98 notifications. Search for "[your DNO name] G98 notification" or go to their website and look for "connect generation" or "small-scale generation."

Most DNOs now offer an online form rather than a downloadable PDF. The online form is faster and generates an automatic acknowledgement.

Step 2: Fill in the Details

The form asks for:

Your details:

• Name and address of the installation
• Your contact details (email, phone)
• MPAN number (your electricity meter point — found on your electricity bill or meter)

System details:

• Type of generator: "Solar Photovoltaic" or "Plug-in Solar Energy System (PSES)"
• Total AC output capacity: 800W (or whatever your inverter's rated AC output is)
• Inverter manufacturer and model: e.g., "Hoymiles HMS-800-2T" or "EcoFlow STREAM"
• Number of phases: Single (for all domestic plug-in solar)
• Date of connection: the date you first plugged in

Installer details:

• For self-installations, enter your own details
• No electrician or MCS certification is required for a plug-in solar notification

Step 3: Submit

Submit the online form. Most DNOs send an email acknowledgement within a few working days. Some issue an instant confirmation reference number.

Step 4: Keep the Confirmation

Save the acknowledgement email or confirmation number. This is your proof of notification — useful for insurance purposes and if you ever sell the property.

What Happens After You Submit

In the vast majority of cases: nothing. The DNO logs your system on their network records and you hear nothing further. Your system continues operating normally.

The DNO has the right to contact you if they identify a network constraint in your area — for example, if the local transformer is already heavily loaded with solar generation. For a single 800W system, this is extremely unlikely. It becomes slightly more relevant if you're notifying for multiple units totalling over 800W (see our multiple units guide).

What If You Don't Notify?

Strictly speaking, connecting a generator without G98 notification is a breach of the connection agreement. In practice, DNOs are not actively policing this for small plug-in solar systems, and there have been no reported enforcement actions against individual homeowners.

However, failing to notify creates problems:

Insurance — if you make a claim related to your electrical system, your insurer may ask whether your installation was properly notified. No G98 acknowledgement = no evidence of compliance.

Property sale — a conveyancing solicitor may ask about any modifications to the electrical installation. A G98 notification demonstrates that you followed the correct process.

Future export payments — if you ever want to access Smart Export Guarantee payments (should the MCS requirement change for plug-in solar), DNO registration is a prerequisite.

The notification takes 15 minutes. There is no fee. There is no reason not to do it.

G98 vs G99

G98 covers systems up to 3.68kW per phase (single phase) — which includes all plug-in solar systems and most small rooftop installations.

G99 covers larger systems above 3.68kW. G99 is an application process (not just a notification) and may require a network study. You will not need G99 for plug-in solar unless you're connecting more than four separate 800W units — and at that point, you should be working with a qualified installer.

G98 When Moving House

Your G98 notification is property-specific. If you move house and take your plug-in solar system with you (see our moving house guide), you need to submit a new G98 notification at your new address with your new DNO (which may be different if you've moved to a different region).

There's no formal process to "cancel" a G98 notification at your old address, but you can email your former DNO to let them know the system has been removed.

Common Questions

Do I need to notify for a portable panel that I only use occasionally? If it's connected to the mains via a micro-inverter and a plug socket — yes, regardless of how often you use it. G98 covers the connection, not the usage pattern.

Does notification cost anything? No. G98 notifications are free.

Can the DNO refuse my notification? For systems under 800W, the DNO cannot refuse. They can only acknowledge. For systems between 800W and 3.68kW, the DNO can technically request modifications if there's a network constraint, but this is exceptionally rare for small residential systems.

Do I need to notify if I add a battery? A battery connected behind the meter (e.g., an EcoFlow DELTA 2 that charges from your ring main) doesn't require a separate G98 notification. It's considered part of the domestic installation, not a separate generator.

For more on the regulatory framework, see our BS 7671 plain English guide and our planning permission guide.