Installing your generator

Once you have paid the deposit, you will set a date for the installation. In some cases you may need to carry out the following preparations before your installation can take place.  Your installer will advise you about what needs to be done.   

• Preparing the site
  
  In the case of solar systems, scaffolding will normally need to be erected.  You can use you own local firm or one arranged by the installers.  In the case of wind turbines, trenches will normally need to be dug out for the laying of cables and the turbine foundation.  Again, you can use your own local firm to do this work, or the installer can arrange this for you.  A good installer should provide you with all the information you need to be able to complete these tasks easily and successfully.

• Connecting to the grid
  
  If your microgenerator is producing electricity (rather than heat) you will need to comply with the regulations of your Distribution Network Operator (DNO) before connecting your generator to the grid. How this is done depends on the size of your installation.

  If your generator is 3.6kW in size or below and you have a typical single phase electricity supply to your property you will need to fill in a G83 form for compliance which you can obtain from your DNO. The G83 form is also suitable if your generator is up to 11.2kW in size and you have a three-phase electricity supply. Once your G83 form is completed, submitted and approved, you will then have an automatic connection to the distribution network. If your generator is larger than this, you will need to contact your DNO and negotiate directly for a connection.
  
  This seems quite complicated but when you need to attend to your grid connection, your installer and Good Energy will be able to provide you with guidelines.

• General Requirements
  
  Depending on the type and the size of generator that you are installing there will be certain General Requirements that you will need to meet to comply with Ofgem Accreditation and enable you to get paid for your energy. We recommend that you look at the Sell your Energy section of the Good Energy Generation website to check that you comply with these requirements. 

How long will the installation take? 

Solar thermal and PV

Once the scaffolding has been erected, a domestic installation can normally be completed within 1 - 2 days. 

Wind Turbines Under 10kw

Feasibility: 1 day
Planning: 8 weeks upwards, depending on the local authority
Liaison with authorities: 1 to 5 days
Ordering equipment: 3 -12 weeks
Foundation: 2 weeks
Installation: 2 days

Wind Turbines over 10kw

Due to the size of investment and power generated there are more considerations and steps in the process. 3 Phase power is required and therefore more lisiason required with the Grid operator and can incur costs of site visits.

Monitoring the wind resource may be necessary which can take between 6 months and 1 year.