Scotland DNO Coverage Map
Solar PV export zones and constraints
Three DNO Zones in Scotland
Scotland is served by three Distribution Network Operator (DNO) zones. Each has its own G98/G99 processes, approval times, and export constraints. Click each zone below for details.
SPEN
SP Energy Networks
Coverage: Central belt, Ayrshire, SW Scotland
Cities: Glasgow, Edinburgh (west), Ayr, Dumfries
G98 threshold: 3.68kW (single-phase)
G99 approval: ~65 working days
SSEN
North
North
SSEN North
Coverage: Highlands, Islands, Far North
Areas: Inverness, Fort William, Orkney, Shetland, Western Isles
G98 threshold: 3.68kW (single-phase)
G99 approval: ~45 working days
⚠ Export Constraints: Some island and rural areas have 0% export limits due to network capacity.
SSEN
South
South
SSEN South
Coverage: SE Scotland, Fife, Perth
Cities: Edinburgh (east), Dundee, St Andrews, Perth
G98 threshold: 3.68kW (single-phase)
G99 approval: ~55 working days
Export Constraints Explained
Export constraints occur when the local electricity network cannot safely accept additional solar exports without upgrades. This is most common in:
- •Remote Scottish islands with limited grid connections (Orkney, Shetland, Western Isles)
- •Rural Highland areas served by long, thin distribution lines
- •Areas with high existing solar penetration where network capacity is saturated
Impact on SEG income: If your DNO imposes an export constraint, your system may be approved for G98/G99 but with a limit on how much you can export. This directly reduces SEG income. Always check constraints before quoting export income to clients.
Scottish Energy Efficiency checks export constraints as standard practice. Call 0141 230 0198 for a constraint check at your property.