What is the difference between G98 and G99 grid connections?

G98 covers qualifying small, fully type-tested generation up to 16 amps per phase; other generation generally needs the G99 application route [S1] [S2]. These are generation connection requirements, not blanket permissions to install EV chargers. Your installer should assess the whole solar and battery arrangement, existing equipment and import needs with your network operator. Checked October 2026.

Last checked 16 October 2026

What are G98 and G99?

G98 and G99 are Energy Networks Association engineering recommendations for connecting generation in parallel with the electricity distribution network. G99 is the generation connection recommendation used for equipment outside the qualifying G98 route. Ask your installer which route applies to your proposed facility. [S2]

A distribution network operator (DNO) manages the local electricity network. Its connection requirements are separate from the contract with the company selling you electricity. Identify the network responsible for your actual supply before submitting documents. [S2]

For your business, the distinction matters when you combine charging with solar photovoltaic panels or battery storage. It can affect the design and order of work. An EV charger taking electricity from the network follows a demand assessment; adding generation requires the generation side to be considered as well. [S2] [S4]

Read solar, battery and charging together before treating these as separate purchases.

What is the G98 threshold for solar and storage?

Electricity North West describes its small-generation route as up to 16 amps per phase. The ENA guide sets out further qualifications, including fully type-tested equipment and distinct processes for a single premises and multiple premises. The current matters per phase, not just as an overall site total. [S1] [S2]

Kilowatts (kW) measure power, while kilowatt-hours (kWh) measure stored or transferred energy. To illustrate the unit conversion, assuming 230 volts and unity power factor, 16 × 230 ÷ 1,000 = 3.68 kW on a phase. Those voltage and power-factor values are calculation assumptions here, not a substitute for your design assessment.

Do not select the route from panel capacity alone. Ask for the inverter ratings, phase arrangement and any existing generating equipment to be shown on the electrical design. The ENA guide explains the connection of generating equipment and aggregation rather than offering a simple roof-panel-count test. [S2]

Use the table as a design discussion checklist. The technical basis is the ENA connection guide. [S2]

Do you apply before installing or notify afterwards?

For qualifying G98 generation at a single premises, the ENA guide describes installation and commissioning followed by notification within 28 days. That sequence must not be applied indiscriminately to another route or a group of premises. [S2]

G99 includes an application and agreement process before connection. Ask your designer to identify the exact stage at which equipment may be connected, the protection requirements and the commissioning evidence required. Do not substitute an installer appointment for network acceptance. [S2]

A practical way to control the project is to request a dated document list before ordering equipment. It should name the submission owner, the network contact, the approved design revision and any conditions still outstanding. Keep approval conditions attached to the installation specification.

This is an explanation of the process, not legal advice. If connection obligations affect your lease or a third party’s rights, check the proposed arrangements with your solicitor.

Does an export limit mean you can skip G99?

Treat the export limit and connection route as different questions. A control setting does not by itself describe the generating equipment connected to the network. Give the designer the full arrangement and ask the DNO to confirm the applicable route and any accepted limitation scheme. [S2]

Ask what happens if the control loses communication, whether other inverters are included and who can change settings. Require the accepted drawing and settings at handover. These are procurement questions, not a claim that every system needs the same control design.

Storage adds another distinction. Battery capacity describes how much energy can be stored; inverter output describes power. Electricity North West’s FAQ addresses storage in the generation connection process. Do not use an energy figure as the only basis for deciding which paperwork applies. [S3]

See peak shaving with batteries if your aim is to reduce charging peaks. That operating objective still needs a connection design.

Does a charging-only project need the same application?

A charger importing electricity is a load. Government EV connection guidance explains assessing the load and when the network operator needs to be involved. Do not label an ordinary importing charger installation as requiring G99 solely because it is commercial or high powered. [S4]

If the proposal includes equipment capable of sending vehicle energy back to the network, obtain a specific generation assessment. Explain the complete operating arrangement to the designer. Read vehicle-to-grid charging for the related questions. [S2]

For combined solar and charging procurement, ask for both import and generation responsibilities in the same programme. Compare grid upgrade costs with installation timing.

What should you do next?

Collect the supply details, existing approvals, inverter schedules and proposed electrical diagram. Ask the designer to confirm the connection route in writing, then get matched with an installer that covers your area.

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