Solar panel installation process UK
What happens during a UK solar panel installation, from quote and survey to DNO paperwork, MCS certificate, handover and SEG export setup.
Key takeaways
- The quote should show system size, annual generation, equipment, warranties and VAT treatment.
- Your installer should handle DNO paperwork, but you should still receive the evidence.
- SEG export payments usually need certification, metering and an export MPAN.
1. Quote and design
The process usually starts with a quote, but a useful quote is more than a price. It should show the proposed system size in kWp, inverter size, estimated annual generation, roof layout, battery details if included, warranty terms and assumptions behind the savings claim.
Energy Saving Trust says domestic solar systems are generally around 3.5kWp and cost around £6,100 on average. That gives context, but your roof access, equipment and electrical work can change the final quote.
2. Survey and roof checks
A survey should check roof condition, shading, cable routes, consumer unit, meter position and safe access. If the roof needs work soon, it is usually better to deal with that before panels go up.
Ask whether the annual kWh estimate is based on the actual roof direction and shade, not just a generic system-size shortcut.
3. DNO paperwork
The Distribution Network Operator manages the local electricity network. Solar and battery systems that operate in parallel with the grid need the right DNO process.
For many smaller single-phase systems, G98 can apply up to 16A per phase, often described as 3.68kW. Larger or more complex systems may need G99 approval before connection. Your installer should explain which route applies.
4. Installation day
Installation normally covers scaffolding, mounting rails, panels, inverter, wiring, isolators and monitoring setup. Battery systems add extra equipment and commissioning checks.
Good installers keep the job tidy, label isolators clearly and explain how the monitoring app works before they leave.
5. Handover pack
The handover pack matters. Keep it somewhere easy to find because you may need it for export tariffs, warranty claims or selling the house.
- MCS certificate or accepted equivalent evidence.
- Electrical certificate.
- DNO notification or approval evidence.
- Panel, inverter and battery warranties.
- System diagram and user instructions.
- VAT invoice and quote paperwork.
6. Export tariff setup
After installation, you can apply for an export tariff if the system and paperwork meet the supplier's requirements. Ofgem says SEG tariffs are set by suppliers, must stay above zero and need eligible metered export.
Your export supplier can be different from your import supplier. Compare tariff rate, contract terms, payment frequency and battery export rules before applying.
Sources checked
- Energy Saving Trust solar panel guideConsumer guidance on costs, payback, savings and maintenance.
- Ofgem SEG guidance for generatorsOfficial SEG eligibility, certification, metering and payment guidance.
- Energy Networks Association Distributed Generation GuideG98 and G99 connection process guidance.
- GOV.UK VAT Notice 708/6VAT treatment for installed energy-saving materials.