Solar installation with a 1 kW grid export limit
Grid export limits and solar module capacity are different quantities. Export limits matter when choosing solar panels, storage and consumption schedules.
Updated
Can I install a system larger than 1 kW?
ESO states that a larger solar installation can be installed with export to the distribution grid limited to 1 kW. Installed module capacity, inverter parameters, maximum capacity Pmax and permitted generation capacity LGG are assessed separately in the documentation. Check the connection and declaration procedures applicable to your site with ESO before ordering equipment.
Where is the generated energy used?
First consider how much electricity the house uses while the sun is shining. If the system allows, remaining energy can charge storage or be exported within the limit. If the battery is full and consumption is low, controls must reduce generation. Annual consumption alone does not show how much energy you can use.
What difference do storage and an electric car make?
Storage can shift some daytime energy to the evening, but its value depends on usable capacity, charging power and daily cycles. An EV increases self-consumption if it can charge during generation. If it only returns home in the evening, future car battery size alone is not enough to size the solar installation.
Compare three usage scenarios: current use, daytime charging and storage. Storage selection matched with charger controls.
How is export limiting checked?
The connection point needs metering appropriate for the specific inverter and manufacturer-supported control. Manually setting total inverter output is not the same as dynamic grid export limiting. The installer must assess the meter or CT sensors, phases, communication and behaviour if measurements fail. Settings cannot be copied between different models without checking their documentation.
What is needed for an initial quotation?
- Permitted generation capacity (LGG) and connection capacity stated in ESO documents.
- Annual consumption and hourly usage profile, if available.
- Roof or land photographs and approximate available area.
- Existing inverter, battery and meter models.
- Whether backup power is needed and when you will charge the electric car.
Official source: ESO connection questions and the 1 kW LGG limit explained ↗. Check the conditions for your site. This guide does not promise a subsidy.