Plug in solar

Qyburn

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81936003#Comment_81936003

External sockets aren't that expensive, you can get fittings that are IP66 with cable plugged in. For example £7.89 from Screwfix ..

https://www.screwfix.com/p/british-general-ip66-13a-1-gang-dp-weatherproof-outdoor-switched-socket/35096

That's a normal 13A.

Scot_39

But AFAIK you cannot fit them yourself as a new install - only a like for like replacement.

Qyburn

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81936849#Comment_81936849

You may be correct, I tend to think in terms of Scotland where it wouldn't be notifiable. Is it the fact that it's outdoors that makes it an issue?

Scot_39

Part P of building regs in England Wales - and I though whilst inside work might not count - I thought outside did - but even that might depend on whether its RCD protected in a couple of forum posts - but those are pretty old posts.

QrizB

As things currently stand, installation of a grid-tied solar PV system is itself "notifiable work".

If they're really going to make plug-in PV a DIY option, they're going to have to change what's notifiable. We'll have to wait and see exactly what the rules are (or choose to ignore them).

Baldytyke88

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81937430#Comment_81937430

It certainly will add at least 50% to the cost, putting pay back a few years.

Ectophile

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81937430#Comment_81937430

Changing regulations is easy for a government. All it needs is an announcement by a minister and the approval of parliament.

Qyburn

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81937430#Comment_81937430

As well the Wiring Regulations they could do with tweaking the DNO approval process. Otherwise everyone would be obliged to submit a G.98 notification.

Reed_Richards

The DNO process could be changed to say that a G.98 application is not required below some peak output level, say 1 kW. So if your panels aren't capable of producing as much as1 kW of output then a G.98 application is not required. Although if balcony solar became popular in a block of flats then the total power output from the block could get quite large.

QrizB

Otherwise everyone would be obliged to submit a G.98 notification.

I guess that, if this requirement isn't removed, it would be pretty simple for retailers to include a preprinted G98 notification in the box with the kit. The purchaser could add their address to it and then post to their DNO.