A design should fit the roof—not fight it
Usable roof area, shading, rooflights and safe access all shape the final layout.
The DNO manages the local network connection
The distribution network operator is separate from the electricity supplier. It assesses generation connections and any proposed export where required. Smaller compliant installations may follow a notification route, while larger or more complex systems can require approval before connection.
The installer should identify the route, submit the required information and explain any condition that affects the final design.
Equipment capacity and export are not the same thing
A property may contain solar, batteries and other generation with a combined inverter capacity greater than the permitted export. Compatible export-limitation equipment can sometimes control what reaches the network, subject to the applicable requirements and DNO acceptance.
Do not promise approval before it exists
Where prior approval is needed, the proposal should state that clearly and explain possible outcomes, timescales and design changes. A quotation should not imply the installer can guarantee a network decision.
Common questions
- Who is my DNO?
- The DNO is the company responsible for the local electricity network. It may be different from the supplier shown on your bill.
- Can a battery affect the grid application?
- Yes. Battery inverter capacity and export behavior can affect the connection assessment, even when the battery is intended mainly for self-use.