Step 8 – Grid connection
For systems larger than 4kW consent is required from the DNO to ensure the electricity
infrastructure is capable of receiving the volume of electricity generated.
This part of the process can take time and as an application to the electricity board doesn’t cost
anything its worth starting this once you know the size of system you are looking at. In some cases
the company supplying the solar array will do this on your behalf.
With a grid connected system no batteries are required. Electricity is imported from the grid when
there is a deficit in the amount produced and the amount required. When there is an excess that can
be exported to the grid. Mains electricity is required for a solar array to work, and therefore in the
event of power cut the array will switched off.
Most electricity suppliers pay 4.68 pence per kwh for every kwh of electricity exported back to the
grid. Some offer a 50/50 tariff anticipating that 50% of the electricity produced would be exported
back to the grid. This avoids the additional standing charge costs for an export meter.
Step 9 - Planning Permission and Finance
The installation of a solar pv array on an agricultural building is now considered permitted
development. Planning consent will only be required if the building is within the curtilage of a Listed
Building, within a Conservation Area or other designated site. Ground mounted solar pv arrays also
need full planning consent.
It is likely that most banks will finance solar PV investments. This is also something that the
Agricultural Mortgage Corporation (AMC) would be willing to look at. Most lenders need to see a
strong core business that can make the repayments but will also want to see the estimated return
from the project.
CHARTERED SURVEYORS
?
VALUERS
?
COUNTRY HOUSES & FARMS
?
PLANNING
?
LITIGATION
? FINANCE
?
RENEWABLES