Your DNO in ScotlandSPEN & SSEN Solar Guide

G98 and G99 are engineering standards that govern how solar panels connect to the UK grid, including in Scotland. G98 applies to solar systems up to 3.68kWp per phase — you notify your DNO (SPEN or SSEN) 30 days before installing. G99 applies to systems above 3.68kWp — you must apply to your DNO and receive approval before installing. Both SPEN and SSEN have their own processes. Scottish Energy Efficiency handles all G98/G99 applications on your behalf. Call 0141 230 0198.

The G98/G99 standards are UK-wide, but the application processes and timelines differ between DNOs. SPEN and SSEN have their own online portals and specific requirements. If you read advice about DNO processes that mentions UK Power Networks (UKPN), Western Power Distribution, or Northern Powergrid, that advice does not apply in Scotland. Scottish Energy Efficiency works regularly with both SPEN and SSEN. Call 0141 230 0198.

Yes — your DNO (SPEN or SSEN) may have constraints on how much solar generation can connect to your local network, particularly in rural areas with older grid infrastructure. In some SSEN areas (Highlands, Islands), generation limits and grid capacity can affect system sizing. We assess your specific location and liaise with your DNO to find the optimal system size. Call 0141 230 0198.

For G98 systems (up to 3.68kWp per phase), you only need to notify the DNO 30 days before installation — no approval required. For G99 systems (above 3.68kWp), SPEN and SSEN aim to respond within 30 days for straightforward applications, but complex or rural connections can take longer. Scottish Energy Efficiency manages the entire DNO application process. Call 0141 230 0198.

SP Energy Networks (SPEN) operates two distribution networks in Scotland: SP Distribution (Central Central Belt) and SP Manweb (which also covers Wales). In Scotland, SPEN covers Glasgow, Edinburgh, Fife, Ayrshire, Lanarkshire, Lothians, the Borders, and Dumfries & Galloway. SPEN also operates the electricity transmission network across south and central Scotland.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) covers the Highlands, Islands (Orkney, Shetland, Western Isles), North East Scotland including Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, Tayside including Dundee and Perth, Perthshire, Argyll & Bute, and parts of Stirlingshire. SSEN serves a large geographical area with many rural properties and island communities.

No — the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) registration and payment process is the same across Scotland and the rest of the UK. You register your solar system with a licensed SEG provider (such as Octopus Energy) regardless of whether you're in SPEN or SSEN territory. SEG payments of 4–30p/kWh are not affected by your Scottish DNO. Call 0141 230 0198.