What SPEN covers
Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) is the Distribution Network Operator responsible for Cheshire (south), Merseyside, North Wales, central Scotland. The network covers the rural farming areas across Cheshire, Merseyside, Flintshire, Wrexham, Denbighshire, Powys (north), Edinburgh, Glasgow, Stirling, Lanarkshire. Every commercial farm PV install above approximately 17 kW within these areas connects via SPEN's G99 process.
The G99 application process via SPEN
The SPEN G99 application is submitted via their connections portal (https://www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/connections.aspx). Standard timeline:
- Application submission: within 14 days of contract signature (your installer submits immediately after the structural survey)
Current capacity context across SPEN's network
Rural North Wales feeders frequently constrained; Cheshire and Lanarkshire generally available. For farms on capacity-constrained feeders, the rational design path is "no-export" — sizing the PV system for 100% self-consumption with zero grid export.
SPEN-specific G99 requirements
SPEN requires standard G99 documentation: system specification (panel and inverter make and model, total kW capacity); single-line electrical diagram; grid-code compliance certificate (inverter manufacturer certification); structural compliance confirmation; site address and grid reference; existing supply details (MPAN, contracted kVA, phase configuration). For installs above 250 kW, SPEN typically requires additional fault-level study and harmonic distortion analysis.
Connection charges to expect on SPEN's network
Indicative SPEN connection charges for typical farm PV installs in 2026:
For projects where the SPEN quote is uneconomic, we typically explore: reducing system capacity to fit within existing feeder limits; no-export design eliminating export reinforcement; battery storage to absorb peak generation; staged commissioning where Phase 1 connects under existing capacity.
How to minimise SPEN G99 timeline impact on your project
Three actions consistently shorten the G99 timeline:
- Submit early. A good installer submits the G99 application within 14 days of contract signature, before detailed electrical design completes. The application can be updated as design firms up; what matters is being in the SPEN queue.
- Pre-engage SPEN where possible. For larger installs (above 500 kW), informal pre-application discussions with the SPEN connections team can flag capacity constraints before formal submission, allowing design adjustments.
Working with SPEN on combined re-roof + PV projects
For projects involving asbestos cement removal followed by PV installation, the G99 application is submitted at the same time as the asbestos removal contractor mobilises. Both workstreams run in parallel through the re-clad and into commissioning. SPEN does not require coordination with the asbestos contractor — the G99 process is electrical-only.
What we do for SPEN G99 applications
The installer handles G99 submission as part of every project scope. Specifically: we draft the G99 application from the structural and electrical design; the installer submits via the SPEN portal; we manage the study response and any queries from SPEN's technical team; your installer coordinates any contestable works planning; we manage the final connection commissioning with SPEN's site team.
Common questions
How long does SPEN take to approve a G99 connection?
The distribution network operator (DNO) is the company that owns the local network, set by the site’s location rather than the electricity supplier. It sets its own G99 study timescales and any reinforcement cost, so ask it for current figures in writing before relying on a programme; the process is covered in the guide to DNO grid connection for rural farm solar.
What's the G99 connection cost on SPEN's network?
There is no single price for an install of this kind. The official DESNZ series for 2025/26 gives a mean installed cost of £1,266.84 per kW for 10–50 kW systems (£1,167.29 for non-domestic installations in that band), but it covers MCS installations up to 50 kW across all building types, so larger farm systems are priced from written quotes. The farm solar cost guide sets out the series and what moves a farm quote.
Can we connect a farm PV system on a capacity-constrained SPEN feeder?
Yes — using no-export design. The PV system is sized for 100% self-consumption with zero grid export.
Does SPEN have special requirements for large farm installs?
For installs above 250 kW, SPEN typically requires additional fault-level study and harmonic distortion analysis. Above 1 MW, full grid-code compliance documentation. A competent installer handles these as part of standard scope.
When should we submit the G99 application to SPEN?
The distribution network operator (DNO) is the company that owns the local network, set by the site’s location rather than the electricity supplier. It sets its own G99 study timescales and any reinforcement cost, so ask it for current figures in writing before relying on a programme; the process is covered in the guide to DNO grid connection for rural farm solar.