It is a cap on how much electricity your system is allowed to send back to the grid at any one time. It does not necessarily cap how much solar you can generate overall; it caps what can be exported.

Because the local network may not be able to accept unrestricted export safely. DNOs use export limitation to avoid issues such as thermal overload and voltage rise on the local network.

G98 is the simpler route for small compliant installations at or below 3.68kW per phase. G99 is for larger or more complex generation connections. G100 is the technical standard for export/import limitation schemes. Too many installers blur these together; that is sloppy. They are connected, but they are not interchangeable terms.

Not necessarily. In many cases, you can install more generation than the allowed export level, provided a compliant export limitation scheme is in place and the DNO accepts it. This is exactly why export limiting exists.

Sometimes yes, but not automatically. Some DNO guidance states that schemes above 3.68kW per phase can apply with export limitation, and in some domestic cases systems can be limited to 3.68kW per phase using a type-approved G100 device. Whether that solves the issue depends on the DNO assessment and the exact system design.

For standard low-voltage “apply to connect” cases, government guidance says the DNO should be in touch within 45 days. SSEN states up to 45 working days for this class of application, while some G99 fast-track routes aim to respond within around 10 working days where the installation fits the qualifying categories.

Assessment fees range from£480–£660 ex VAT for residential areas. (Northern Powergrid)