G98 notification explained

G98 is the engineering recommendation that sits behind a simple principle: when small generation is connected to the public electricity network, the network operator is told about it. Understanding that principle helps explain why plug-in solar raises questions an ordinary appliance does not.

One essential point first: Plug-in solar has been legal to use in Great Britain since 27 August 2026, when SI 2026/848 came into force alongside Ofgem-approved changes to the G98 connection code — provided the kit is listed as compliant on the ENA Type Test Register. Northern Ireland is not covered. Notification does apply: since 27 August 2026 the interim product specification makes notifying your DNO of connection and disconnection mandatory for plug-in devices. We cover the detail on the UK legal status page. This guide is general information, not electrical or legal advice.

What is G98?

G98 is an engineering recommendation published by the Energy Networks Association (ENA). It forms part of the wider G98 and G99 framework that covers connecting generation to the public electricity network, with G98 aimed at smaller installations. Its purpose is to set out how such generation is connected and notified so the network can keep running safely and reliably.

Why generation is notified to the network operator

Your local network is run by a Distribution Network Operator (DNO) — the company responsible for the cables and equipment that bring electricity to homes, which is generally separate from the supplier you pay. The DNO needs to know what generation is connected to the network it manages, so that the network can be planned and operated safely. Notifying generation is how that information reaches them, and it is the principle G98 puts into practice.

How this differs from a simple appliance

An ordinary appliance only draws electricity from the network, so there is nothing to notify. Generation is different: it puts electricity into the system, which is information the network operator has an interest in. That is the underlying reason a small generator is treated differently from, say, a kettle, even though both might plug in.

How plug-in solar now fits

This was settled on 27 August 2026: the interim product specification makes notifying your distribution network operator of connection and disconnection mandatory, and the device must be type tested to G98 and listed as compliant on the ENA Type Test Register before it is placed on the market. Ofgem approved the G98 changes for plug-in solar (DCRP/MP/26/02) on 11 August 2026, and G98 Issue 2 Amendment 1 currently restricts this to one plug-in device per household. A device that has merely been submitted to the register is not compliant, so check the exact model code.

How you actually do it

The notification is made for you through the UK Plug-in Solar Registration service, which the Energy Networks Association operates. You verify an email address with a one-time code, enter your postcode and pick your address, select your device from the approved list, and submit; the service then sends the notification to your network operator. It asks for no MPAN, no serial number and no commissioning date, and the ENA states that you should register “once you have your plug-in solar device and know the address where it will be installed”. Full detail, with what to do if your device is not on the list, is in how to register a plug-in solar kit.