Commercial solar and batteries
Grid connections and export limits for business solar
Can our solar system export electricity to the grid?
Whether a system can connect and export depends on its design, the site's existing connection and the local network. The distribution network operator may accept the proposal, impose conditions, require reinforcement or set an export limit. A viable business case should distinguish self-consumed generation from permitted export and record the connection status clearly.
Written by Energy Guide editorial team · Specialist review: Pending · Source checked:
Connection and export are project inputs
Identify the existing import connection, proposed generation and storage, maximum export and operating controls. The relevant application and technical requirements depend on the scheme; ask the designer to identify the route and evidence its status.
Do not confuse an application with permission
Record whether the project has only an initial assumption, has been submitted, has received a connection offer or has accepted and satisfied its conditions.
- DNO and application reference
- Generation and storage capacity submitted
- Permitted export capacity
- Protection and export-control requirements
- Reinforcement, charges and programme
- Offer validity and acceptance conditions
- Responsibility for testing and commissioning evidence
Model self-consumption and export separately
Value used behind the meter and value exported may follow different prices and contracts. Test the case against the permitted export position, expected daytime demand, curtailment or control losses and changes in site operation.
Sources
These sources support the explanation above. Check the linked source for current rules and eligibility.
- Energy Networks Association: connecting to the networks
- Energy Networks Association: engineering recommendations