Upcoming Solar Panel Install - But smart meter not showing Export

MadAsToast

Hi,

Hoping this is the right place to post this (it's energy related)

Hopefully someone can help.

I have an upcoming solar panel installation and have been checking the criteria for the SEG - it would appear my “old” British Gas SMETS I smart meter (Landi+Gyr E470) doesn’t show a counter for export data. (I have followed the instructions from my current provider (Bulb) along with others I found “googling”, but it’s just is missing when it cycles through).

I've read in various sites that British Gas launched these "modified" and I'm beginning to think this meter just doesn't have this or is this something that will “appear” once I start exporting or is this not going to show this? (and if this is the case does this mean I cannot be paid for the exported data?).

I do have a battery storage on order however due to manufacturing delays I'm going to be with just the panels initially.

Anyone been in the same situation before and know the answer please?

Thanks

Chris.

QrizB

I'm not in the situation you describe. However I'd suggest signing up with your SEG supplier then complaining to them that your smart meter isn't displaying the info.

It might be something they can sort out over-the-air, or it might need a replacement meter.

I'd start this soon, too; right at the moment you're not missing out on much but from March onwards solar generation will (should) pick up significantly.

Edit:it's also possible that it won't display an export reading until you've actually exported something.

QrizB

PS most of the solar discussion takes place on the Green and Ethical board:

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/categories/green-ethical-moneysaving

MWT

I'm pretty sure that export metering is part of the basic spec for SMETS1/2, but you may not see it until export actually occurs...

MadAsToast

Thanks @QrizB

I need to wait for the install (it's only 3 days away) so I can get the MCS certificate (which they need to see it's an approved install) - I thought it might just be that it'll appear when the export start but wanted to see if anyone else has experienced this before.

Is there anyway this post can be moved to the correct section?

[Deleted User]

You will not be able to get SEG until the supplier has applied to the DNO for, and got, an export MPAN. Octopus, for example, will require proof of MCS Certification and DNO approval before it will make a submission for the MPAN.

MWT

The good news though is that they tend to assume a 0 start on the export metering when assigning a new MPAN so even if it takes a little time to get your SEG approved, you will still get paid for everything you've exported.

MadAsToast

@MWT - Thanks, hoping this is the case.

@[Deleted User] -Thanks for the information, the installer applied for a DNO in advance due to the potential output being higher than our grid take without approaching first, (a condition when it "could" exceed a certain amount, 5kw/h rings a bell but there was so much to take in). Bulb is asking for the MCS to apply they don't specifically state a DNO but that'll probably be something they check for as part of their process.

Really appreciate all the comments and feedback.

MWT

MadAsToast said:

...Bulb is asking for the MCS to apply they don't specifically state a DNO but that'll probably be something they check for as part of their process.

Really appreciate all the comments and feedback.

The DNO is your distribution operator, they approve the solar install where necessary and issue the MPAN when it is requested by your supplier.

[Deleted User]

MadAsToast said:

@MWT - Thanks, hoping this is the case.

@[Deleted User] -Thanks for the information, the installer applied for a DNO in advance due to the potential output being higher than our grid take without approaching first, (a condition when it "could" exceed a certain amount, 5kw/h rings a bell but there was so much to take in). Bulb is asking for the MCS to apply they don't specifically state a DNO but that'll probably be something they check for as part of their process.

Really appreciate all the comments and feedback.

If you are considering installing a battery then the DNO will treat it as a potential generator. Any site export limit will apply to the PV solar and battery. For example, I have a 7kWp array and a Powerwall 2 which potentially could export 12kWs. My DNO has not imposed an export limit: others have not been so lucky. Your installer will configure your system to comply with any DNO limitation. 

MadAsToast

@[Deleted User] the[Deleted User] said:

MadAsToast said:

@MWT - Thanks, hoping this is the case.

@[Deleted User] -Thanks for the information, the installer applied for a DNO in advance due to the potential output being higher than our grid take without approaching first, (a condition when it "could" exceed a certain amount, 5kw/h rings a bell but there was so much to take in). Bulb is asking for the MCS to apply they don't specifically state a DNO but that'll probably be something they check for as part of their process.

Really appreciate all the comments and feedback.

If you are considering installing a battery then the DNO will treat it as a potential generator. Any site export limit will apply to the PV solar and battery. For example, I have a 7kWp array and a Powerwall 2 which potentially could export 12kWs. My DNO has not imposed an export limit: others have not been so lucky. Your installer will configure your system to comply with any DNO limitation. 

I've ordered a LG 16kW/h battery to be included with this (unsure on the export potential of this, I really wanted to be in a position to draw minimal amount from the grid as I do intend in the future to get an EV), just waiting as it's on backorder, just a long delay on these parts (like most technology these days)