Plug-in solar buying guide

The buying order

1. Confirm geography: establish whether the current GB connection-and-use route applies; it does not currently extend to Northern Ireland.
2. Confirm permission: resolve landlord, freeholder, building and insurance considerations (check insurance implications rather than assuming consent is always required).
3. Confirm the property: identify a secure, unshaded location, check the specification's mounting restrictions and combustible-surface risks, and establish a safe cable route.
4. Confirm electrical suitability: the route is designed for direct connection to a suitable standard socket. Do not substitute an extension lead, cable reel or multi-way adaptor. Fixed socket or circuit work must comply with applicable wiring requirements and should be carried out by a competent electrician; where suitability cannot safely be established, seek competent assessment.
5. Confirm the exact product: model, revision, ratings, battery status, notified-body plug approval and current register record.
6. Notify the DNO: confirm who is responsible for the G98 notification and retain evidence that the DNO was notified within 28 days.
7. Model value: use your location, orientation, shade, usage and current tariff, not a generic headline.

Questions for a seller

• What is the exact model and hardware revision?
• Is there notified-body plug approval under the amended PSSR, a declaration of conformity and product-safety documentation for the exact device?
• Where is its current ENA register / type-test record?
• What are the rated AC output in VA, connected current and maximum DC input?
• Does the system include or integrate a battery?
• What socket, circuit and cable conditions are specified?
• Who is responsible for DNO notification and what evidence is supplied?
• Which claims are manufacturer statements and which were independently verified?