G98 is an engineering recommendation published by the Energy Networks Association covering the connection of small generation to the public electricity network. It sits within the wider G98 and G99 framework, with G98 aimed at smaller installations.

Why is grid-connected generation notified to a network operator?

Distribution Network Operators manage the local electricity network and need to know what generation is connected to it so the network can be run safely and reliably. Notifying generation is how that information reaches them, which is different from simply plugging in an appliance that only draws power.

Who is the Distribution Network Operator?

A Distribution Network Operator, or DNO, is the company responsible for the local electricity distribution network in your area — the cables and equipment that bring electricity to homes. It is generally separate from the supplier you pay for your electricity.

Guide

G98 notification explained

What G98 is, why generation connected to the grid is notified to your network operator, how that differs from a normal appliance, and the open question of how it applies to plug-in solar.

Written and edited by Christopher Panteli

Last reviewed 19 June 2026

Christopher is the founder and editor of MyPlugInSolar. He oversees the site’s research standards, data tools and editorial process. He is not an electrician or solar installer, and specialist technical claims are sourced from official documentation or reviewed by appropriately qualified professionals.

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 cannot currently be legally sold, supplied or used in the UK. A Government consultation that could change this is open until 30 June 2026, and how notification would apply is one of the questions still being worked through. 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.

A general comparison of the principle — exact requirements depend on the equipment and the rules that apply.
Aspect	A normal appliance	Grid-connected generation
Direction of electricity	Only draws power from the network	Can put power into the network
Network operator's interest	Generally none for notification	Wants to know what is connected
Typical position	No notification expected	Notified under the relevant recommendation

The open question for plug-in solar

Where plug-in solar fits is not yet settled. It is small, it connects through a socket rather than a fixed installation, and the UK framework for it is still being developed. Whether DNO notification under G98 would be required, simplified or waived for plug-in systems is one of the unresolved questions, and it is exactly the kind of point the consultation is intended to address. We do not yet know the answer, and this guide does not predict it.

Not yet legal — consultation open

The DESNZ consultation opened on 16 June 2026 and closes on 30 June 2026, with a response expected by 22 July 2026. See the legal status for the full picture and sources.

Safety and compliance

Connecting any generation to your home brings it within UK electrical rules. Installations must comply with current requirements such as BS 7671 and the manufacturer's instructions, and any fixed-wiring work should be carried out by a qualified, registered electrician. Because the UK framework for plug-in solar is unsettled — including how it would be notified to the network — do not buy a system expecting to use it legally today.

Frequently asked questions

What is G98?: G98 is an engineering recommendation published by the Energy Networks Association covering the connection of small generation to the public electricity network. It sits within the wider G98 and G99 framework, with G98 aimed at smaller installations.
Why is grid-connected generation notified to a network operator?: Distribution Network Operators manage the local electricity network and need to know what generation is connected to it so the network can be run safely and reliably. Notifying generation is how that information reaches them, which is different from simply plugging in an appliance that only draws power.
Does G98 apply to plug-in solar?: That is one of the open questions. Plug-in solar is not currently legal to sell, supply or use in the UK, and whether DNO notification under G98 would be required, simplified or waived for plug-in systems is part of what is still being worked through. A Government consultation is open until 30 June 2026.
Who is the Distribution Network Operator?: A Distribution Network Operator, or DNO, is the company responsible for the local electricity distribution network in your area — the cables and equipment that bring electricity to homes. It is generally separate from the supplier you pay for your electricity.

Sources

1. Connecting generation to the network (G98 / G99) — Energy Networks Association
2. BS 7671 Wiring Regulations — Institution of Engineering and Technology
3. Plug-in solar consultation — Department for Energy Security & Net Zero

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