G98 Notification Explained for Solarbank 4 Users: UK Requirements and Process

UK Solarbank 4 users may need to notify their local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before or after connecting small-scale generation equipment to the electricity network. If your system can generate or export electricity, the grid operator usually needs a record of it for safety and network management.

This guide, G98 notification explained for Solarbank 4 users, explains G98 notification in simple terms, including what it means, what information you may be asked to provide, and how to handle the process when using an Anker SOLIX Solarbank 4 system at home. It is designed to help you understand the basic steps and prepare the right details before contacting your DNO.

Alt: G98 notification explained for Solarbank 4 users

Do Solarbank 4 users need a G98 notification?

Some UK Solarbank 4 installations may require G98 notification depending on the system configuration, inverter setup and export capability. The exact requirement depends on your inverter, export capacity, wiring arrangement and whether the equipment is type-tested.

Quick answer for UK users

For most small home systems, G98 applies when output is up to 16A per phase—about 3.68kW on a typical UK single-phase supply. G98 notification explained for Solarbank 4 users helps you see if you only need simple notification, not a full grid application.

When G98 applies to Solarbank 4

G98 can apply when Solarbank 4 is part of a small-scale solar or battery system that operates alongside the grid and can export electricity within permitted limits. The DNO is mainly interested in the generating equipment, inverter capacity and how much power could be exported.

The Anker SOLIX Solarbank 4 E5000 Pro offers flexible energy management for different household setups:

• 4 MPPT channels: Supports 4–12 solar panels, allowing the system to adapt to different solar configurations.
• 2,500W bidirectional charging: Enables flexible charging and energy management.
• 800W grid-tied output: Helps provide power for everyday household use.
• Plug-and-play design: Simplifies setup for compatible installations.

Checking the product specifications before submitting DNO paperwork can help ensure the correct information is provided.

When professional advice may be needed

Seek professional advice for hard-wired, multi-unit, non-standard consumer unit, or over-3.68kW single-phase export systems, and if UK wiring compliance is unclear. G98 vs G99: G98 suits smaller type-tested systems; G99 applies to larger or more complex installations needing prior assessment.

What a G98 notification means

A G98 notification tells the local network operator that small-scale generation equipment has been connected at your property. It is not the same as planning permission, building control sign-off, electrical certification, MCS registration or an export tariff application.

G98 as a UK grid connection standard

G98 is an Engineering Recommendation used for the connection of small-scale generation equipment to the UK electricity network. For homeowners, a G98 notification is important because it officially records the system with the DNO.

Notify and connect in simple terms

For standard G98 systems, you usually notify the DNO rather than request prior approval. In many cases, this is done after commissioning, typically within 28 days. However, always check your DNO’ s process first, as some setups or portal requirements may differ.

Type-tested equipment and the 16A per phase limit

G98 usually applies to type-tested generation equipment rated at up to 16A per phase. For a typical single-phase UK home connection, this is commonly stated as 3.68kW.“Type-tested” means the manufacturer has proven the equipment meets required grid safety standards, often supported by ENA reference numbers or manufacturer documents.

Why G98 matters for Solarbank 4 systems

G98 matters because even a small home energy system can interact with the local electricity network. The rules are designed to protect engineers, maintain network quality and keep accurate records of generation connected across the UK.

• Safety protection: Anti-islanding prevents solar or battery systems from continuing to power the grid during outages, protecting engineers working on the network.
• Grid management: DNOs use system information to monitor export levels, voltage and future network needs.
• Future records: Keeping G98 evidence helps with insurance, property sales, export payments and future system upgrades.

DNO, energy supplier and MPAN explained

Before starting a DNO notification, it helps to understand who you are dealing with. Your DNO, energy supplier and MPAN all relate to your electricity supply, but they are not the same thing.

The role of your Distribution Network Operator

Your Distribution Network Operator owns and operates the local electricity cables, substations and network infrastructure in your area. It is responsible for the network that brings electricity to your property.

Examples:

• UK Power Networks
• National Grid Electricity Distribution
• Northern Powergrid
• Electricity North West
• SP Energy Networks
• Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks

The difference between your DNO and your energy supplier

Your energy supplier bills your electricity, while your DNO manages the local network based on your postcode.

• G98: Contact your DNO for notification.
• SEG payments: Apply through an energy supplier offering export tariffs.

Where to find your MPAN

Your MPAN is your property’ s unique electricity supply number, usually 13 digits. You can find it on your electricity bill, in your supplier’ s online account, or by contacting your supplier. Use the correct MPAN so the DNO matches the notification to the right supply point.

What information do you need for a G98 notification?

A G98 notification is easier if you gather the right details before opening your DNO portal. Most of the form is practical information about your property, electricity supply, equipment and installation date.

Property and electricity supply details

You usually need your full address, postcode, MPAN, and confirmation of whether your property has a single-phase or three-phase supply. Most UK homes are single-phase. If unsure, ask an electrician or contact your DNO.

Solarbank 4 and inverter details

The DNO needs the equipment brand, model, and technical specifications. For Solarbank 4 systems, check the product label, manual, app, or manufacturer documents. Inverter details are crucial, as G98 limits depend on output/export capacity, not simply solar panel wattage or battery size.

Capacity, installation date and supporting documents

You may be asked for system capacity in kW, battery capacity in kWh, installation date, commissioning date and type-test references. Some DNOs may also request a simple wiring diagram.

How to submit a G98 notification for Solarbank 4

Submitting a G98 notification for Solarbank 4 is usually a practical online task. For a standard G98 notification, there is normally no DNO fee, although requirements and portals vary by network area.

• Find your DNO: Use the ENA postcode checker and access the correct generation portal.
• Choose the right process: Select G98 after confirming your inverter capacity and connection type.
• Provide system details: Enter your address, MPAN, inverter information and installation date.
• Submit and keep records: Upload documents if required, then save the confirmation or acknowledgement.

Special situations for flats, renters and larger setups

Some homes need extra caution before submitting a notification or connecting equipment. Flats, rented properties, leasehold homes and larger systems can involve permissions beyond the DNO process.

Rented homes and landlord permission

If you rent your home, get written permission from your landlord before installing or connecting energy equipment. Your tenancy agreement may restrict electrical alterations, external panels or balcony installations. Even if the DNO notification is straightforward, landlord approval and electrical safety responsibilities still matter.

Flats, leasehold properties and shared electrical infrastructure

Flats can have shared meters, landlord supplies, communal wiring, management company rules or lease restrictions. A system connected incorrectly could affect shared electrical infrastructure. Before installing Solarbank equipment in a flat or leasehold property, check your lease, building management rules and electrical arrangement.

Multiple Solarbank units and export capacity

Multiple Solarbank units or multiple inverters can change the notification category. The DNO usually cares about total generation or export capacity at the connection point. If the combined output exceeds the G98 threshold for your phase arrangement, you may need G99 rather than a simple G98 notification.

Three-phase homes and non-standard installations

Three-phase properties have different capacity calculations because output may be spread across phases. Some larger homes, farms, workshops and converted buildings may have three-phase supplies. If your setup is three-phase, hard-wired, export-limited, or uses unusual switching equipment, ask a qualified electrician before submitting.

Common mistakes to avoid

Most G98 problems come from using the wrong organisation, entering the wrong capacity, or assuming notification is unnecessary. A few checks before submission can prevent delays and awkward questions later.

• Contacting the wrong organisation: G98 is handled by the DNO, not your energy supplier.
• Entering incorrect details: Check the MPAN, inverter rating, export limit and capacity information carefully.
• Ignoring battery requirements: Battery systems may still need notification if they interact with the grid.
• Mixing up schemes: G98, SEG, MCS and Building Regulations cover different requirements and do not replace each other.

Summary

Before using or expanding a Solarbank 4 system in the UK, make sure it complies with G98 notification explained for Solarbank 4 users by checking the connection type, output capacity and notification route. Confirm that the equipment is type-tested and that total output remains within the 16A per phase G98 limit, which for most single-phase homes is about 3.68kW. 

If there is any doubt, consult a qualified electrician. Use the ENA postcode checker to identify your local DNO and submit the correct notification through its G98 process. Finally, save your acknowledgement, manuals, labels, installation notes and certificates for future upgrades, tariffs, export payments or property sales.

FAQ

Do I need DNO approval before using Solarbank 4?

You usually do not need prior DNO approval for a standard G98 system, but you may need to notify the DNO after commissioning. If your Solarbank 4 setup exceeds G98 limits, uses non-type-tested equipment, or has a complex connection, G99 approval may be needed before installation.

Is G98 notification free in the UK?

Yes, standard G98 notification is usually free in the UK. DNOs typically do not charge for registering a compliant small-scale generation system under G98. Costs may arise if you need an electrician, technical drawings, remedial work, or a G99 application for a larger setup.

Can a DNO reject a G98 notification?

A DNO does not usually “reject” a correct G98 notification in the same way as a G99 application. However, it can query missing information or say the system does not qualify for G98. If the capacity is too high or details are unclear, you may need to revise the submission.