What does grid-connected mean?
Most PV systems in the UK will be grid-connected, which means that the systems are connected to the local electricity network via the customer’s “consumer unit” or “fuse box”. During the day, the electricity generated by the PV system can either be used immediately to power electrical appliances in the home or workplace, or can be sold to one of the electricity utility companies. During the night when the solar system is unable to generate electricity, power can be bought back from the network. In effect, the grid is acting as an energy storage system, which means the Solar PV system does not need to include battery storage. Connecting a PV system to the distribution network will require permission from the Distribution Network Operator (DNO). The DNOs in the UK have different policies when it comes to connecting PV systems to their networks, and so different rates will be paid for exported electricity. You will be required to contact your DNO to let them know that you plan to install
