Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are becoming increasingly popular in Greater Manchester homes. While the panels and inverter are typically fitted by a solar installer, a qualified domestic electrician plays a crucial role in ensuring your home's electrical installation is ready and that the system is connected safely.
What Does the Electrician Do in a Solar Installation?
A domestic electrician's responsibilities in a solar PV installation typically include:
- Assessing the capacity of your existing consumer unit
- Installing a generation meter and export meter
- Connecting the inverter output to your consumer unit or distribution board
- Installing an AC isolator switch between the inverter and consumer unit
- Ensuring all circuits meet current BS 7671 requirements
- Testing and certifying the completed installation
Consumer Unit Capacity
Solar PV adds a generation circuit to your consumer unit alongside your existing load circuits. Your consumer unit needs:
- A spare way for the solar generation MCB (typically 20A or 32A depending on system size)
- An RCD or RCBO protecting the generation circuit
- Adequate busbar capacity for the additional load
If your consumer unit is old or full, a solar installation may trigger the need for an upgrade — which is actually a positive outcome for your electrical safety.
Generation and Export Meters
All solar PV systems in the UK require an MCS-compliant generation meter. If you are exporting electricity under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), your energy supplier will also require a smart export meter. Your electrician will install these as part of the connection.
DNO (Distribution Network Operator) Notification
For systems up to 3.68kW single-phase, you can self-certify under G98. For larger systems, a G99 application to your DNO is required before installation. Your installer or electrician will handle this notification.
Part P Compliance
All electrical work associated with solar PV is notifiable under Part P of the Building Regulations. This must be carried out by a registered competent person — Onyx Electrical Solutions is NICEIC registered and can carry out all solar-related electrical work.
Battery Storage
If you are adding a battery storage system, this requires additional electrical work — typically a second isolation point and additional metering. Battery systems should be installed in a ventilated location and the electrical connections certified.
Onyx Electrical Solutions works alongside solar PV installers across Greater Manchester to ensure compliant, safe electrical connections. Call 07000 000000 to discuss your solar installation.