G98 Explained: Small-Scale Solar & Plug-in Devices | UK Power Tech Hub
G98 Explained for UK Homeowners: A Practical Guide.
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G98 is the UK standard used for the connection of certain small-scale electricity-generating equipment to the public distribution network. For homeowners considering solar panels, microinverters, plug-in solar or small battery systems, understanding G98 helps explain what requirements apply before connecting generation to the grid.
This guide explains G98 in straightforward language, what it means for homeowners, how it relates to small solar systems and why having compliant equipment is important.
G98 explained UK Power Tech Hub |Â Solar & Battery ConnectionsÂ
Understand G98 for home solar and batteries, when DNO approval may be needed and what to check before installing an energy system.
G98 explained uk power tech hub
G98 is an Engineering Recommendation covering the connection of type-tested small-scale generation to the UK's electricity distribution network.
It is designed for smaller generating installations that meet the relevant technical requirements and have approved type-tested equipment.
For homeowners, the important point is that G98 is about how generation connects safely to the electricity network — it is not simply a label that makes any solar or battery product automatically compliant.
What does G98 mean for homeowners?
If you are installing a small generating system, the equipment must meet the relevant technical and connection requirements.
Depending on the type and size of the installation, the process may involve notification to the Distribution Network Operator (DNO), and some installations may fall under different connection requirements.
Always check the manufacturer's UK documentation and the requirements of your local DNO before connecting equipment.
- G98 and 800W Plug-in SolarG98 and the UK's 800W plug-in solar rules are related but they are not the same thing.The 800W figure refers to the maximum AC output permitted for equipment covered by the UK's plug-in solar arrangements.G98 is the wider grid-connection standard for certain small-scale generation.A product being described as G98 compliant does not automatically mean that it can simply be plugged into any domestic socket.The complete system must be designed and approved for the intended UK installation method, and the manufacturer's instructions and current UK requirements must be followed.
Practical Implementation
For homeowners considering a small solar or battery system:
1. Check the manufacturer's UK documentation.
2. Confirm the inverter and complete system have the required grid-connection compliance.
3. Check the maximum AC output.
4. Confirm whether the product is specifically designed for plug-in use or requires a fixed electrical connection.
5. Check whether DNO notification or another connection process is required.
6. Make sure the existing electrical installation is suitable.
7. Follow the manufacturer's installation, protection and operating requirements.
If you are unsure whether your electrical installation is suitable, seek advice from a suitably qualified electrician.
UKPTH Takeaway
G98 is an important part of understanding how small-scale generation connects safely to the UK electricity network.
But G98 does not mean "anything can be plugged in".
Always check the complete system, its output rating, UK compliance documentation and intended installation method before connecting solar or battery equipment.
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