Thinking about installing an electric vehicle charger at home? This includes both electric car chargers and electric vehicle chargers for a range of electric cars. Before you get started it’s important to know about DNO approval. This step often catches homeowners by surprise but it’s a crucial part of connecting your charger safely to the UK electricity grid.
DNO stands for Distribution Network Operator—the company responsible for managing the power supply in your area. The DNO manages the local electricity network, which receives power from the national grid before distributing it to homes and businesses. Most households in the UK connect to a local low voltage distribution network for their electricity supply. They need to approve most home EV charger installations to make sure your connection won’t overload the local network. Understanding how DNO approval works helps you avoid delays and gets your charger up and running smoothly.
Understanding DNO Approval for UK Home EV Chargers
DNO approval for UK home EV chargers regulates the connection of new charging points to the local electricity grid. DNOs, including UK Power Networks and Northern Powergrid, which operate in specific regions, assess whether your home’s supply can accommodate an EV charger without risking overloads or voltage drops. Most home EV chargers in the UK are 7 kW (single-phase), representing a significant increase in your property’s electrical demand compared to a standard 3 kW load. The DNO approval process, managed by your installer, ensures this additional load won’t overload the local network.
For standard 7 kW single-phase EV charger installations, your installer will typically submit a G98 notification to the DNO. This applies if the total current demand of your property, including the new charger, does not exceed 60 amps (or 16 amps per phase for the charger itself, without export). In many such cases, the installer can proceed with the installation and then notify the DNO within 28 days of commissioning the charger.
However, if the total prospective load of your property with the EV charger exceeds 60 amps, or if your installation involves a three-phase charger or specific smart charging functionalities like Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), a G99 application is generally required. A G99 application mandates DNO approval before installation can commence.
The DNO’s assessment reviews whether your property’s electrical supply, including earthing and main fuse capacity, can safely accommodate the charger. They may grant immediate approval for straightforward connections. For properties with older wiring, limited supply, or if a G99 application is needed, DNOs might require service upgrades—such as fuse changes, cable reinforcement, or separation of ‘looped’ supplies—before approval is granted.
Response times vary: for simple G98 notifications, DNOs often acknowledge receipt within 10-15 working days. For G99 applications or installations requiring network upgrades, the assessment and approval process can take significantly longer, ranging from 30 to 60 working days, or even longer depending on complexity and DNO backlogs. DNOs maintain records of approved locations and charger models to manage grid load across specific postcodes, ensuring stability for all users. Installing an EV charger without the necessary DNO consent can invalidate insurance, warranties, and affect future property resale value.
Why DNO Approval Is Essential
DNO approval protects your property and local grid when installing a home EV charger. EV chargers can create increased demand on the local electricity network, so the DNO must assess and manage this to ensure the grid remains stable. This process makes sure your charger installation is safe, legal, and compatible with the UK’s electricity infrastructure.
Ensuring Grid Safety and Compatibility
DNO approval safeguards your local grid from overloads caused by increased EV charging demand, using assessments that compare your charger’s power rating with grid limits. Proper equipment, such as OZEV-approved chargepoints and installers, reduces electrical risks. The right charger location—balanced with site details—further limits hazards, following requirements set out by authorities like NICEIC. Other factors, such as cable length and installation complexity, also play a role in ensuring grid safety.
Preventing Power Supply Disruptions
DNO approval verifies that your EV charger doesn’t unduly strain grid capacity, with DNOs reviewing your installation’s power impact against local network limits.
For many standard 7kW single-phase home chargers, installers typically use a G98 notification, which allows them to install the charger and then notify the DNO within 28 days of commissioning, provided the property’s total demand remains below 60 amps. This streamlined process applies to most residential 7kW chargers.
However, higher-powered systems (e.g., three-phase chargers), or installations where the property’s total demand with the EV charger exceeds 60 amps, require a G99 application. This often means DNO approval must be secured before the installation can commence. Certified installers are responsible for determining the correct application type, completing the necessary forms, and liaising with the DNO. This ensures proper assessment and allows for coordination of any necessary grid upgrades, preventing electricity interruptions and preserving a stable supply for all users in your neighbourhood.
Choosing the Right Home EV Charger
Selecting the right home EV charger is a key step in ensuring a smooth and efficient installation process. With a growing range of electric vehicles and charging solutions available, it’s important to match your charger to both your car and your home’s electricity supply. Before starting your home EV charger installation, consider how often you’ll need to charge, where you want the charger located, and whether your property’s electrical infrastructure can support the additional load.
A professional installer or qualified electrician will assess your property’s existing supply and distribution network to determine the best location for your charger. An EV charger installation requires a qualified professional electrician to carry out the work. This assessment ensures your chosen charger can be safely connected without overloading your home’s power supply or the local network. The installation process itself is typically completed within a few hours, but the overall timeline may depend on the complexity of your property’s wiring and any upgrades required by the distribution network operator (DNO).
When choosing an EV charger, make sure it is compatible with your electric vehicle and meets all necessary safety and technical standards set by the DNO and UK regulations. Popular options include tethered chargers, which come with a fixed cable for convenience, and untethered chargers, which require you to use your own charging cable. Each type offers different benefits depending on your charging habits and vehicle requirements.
The cost of a home EV charger installation can vary based on the type of charger you select and the complexity of the installation work. The cost of an EV charge point installation depends on the charger chosen and the complexity of the installation. Factors such as the need for a fuse upgrade, the distance from your electricity supply to the installation location, and any additional infrastructure work required by the DNO can all influence the final price. Investing in a high-quality, DNO-approved charger ensures your installation is future-proof, safe, and fully compliant with UK standards.
By carefully considering your options and working with experienced installers, you can ensure your home EV charger is installed efficiently, safely, and ready to meet your electric vehicle charging needs for years to come.
The DNO Application Process Explained
The DNO process confirms the local network can support your home EV charger safely and legally. Professional installers usually handle DNO applications due to technical requirements and regulatory standards, including completing the necessary forms and liaising with the DNO on your behalf. Completing all steps in the DNO process is essential to ensure your application is approved and your installation proceeds without unnecessary delays.
What Homeowners Need to Provide
For DNO applications, customers must supply key information about their property and charger installation. These details typically include:
- Your installer and customer contact details
- The property address and electrical supply specifications
- Your EV charger’s power rating and phase type (single or three-phase)
- Installer credentials, such as OZEV approval or NICEIC certification
- Maximum demand calculations for your property’s supply
Installers often calculate maximum demand and ensure all documentation matches DNO requirements before submitting the ENA application form.
Typical Timelines and Outcomes
The DNO application process and timelines can vary. For straightforward G98 notifications (common for many 7kW chargers where the total household demand stays below 60 amps), the installer can proceed, and DNO acknowledgement is typically received within 10-15 working days after installation.
For G99 applications or situations requiring network upgrades, DNO response times are longer. You can typically expect a DNO response within 30 to 60 working days after application submission, depending on the complexity of your property’s connection and the DNO’s current workload. Some DNOs are faster than others, but this is a reasonable general guide.
If the DNO finds your existing supply insufficient (e.g., inadequate main fuse or cable capacity, or a shared ‘looped’ supply), you may face additional steps such as fuse upgrades or network reinforcement. These ‘further actions’ can significantly extend the timeline, potentially adding 2 to 8+ weeks, or even longer for complex grid reinforcement or the ‘unlooping’ of shared supplies.
Step | Detail | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
DNO Application (G99) | Form submission by installer, before installation | 0 days |
Assessment (G99) | DNO review for complex cases/upgrades | 30-60 days |
DNO Notification (G98) | Installer notifies DNO, after installation | (Notification within 28 days of commissioning) |
Further Actions | Upgrades/infrastructure reinforcement (if needed) | Add 2-8+ weeks (or more) |
Once DNO approval is received, the installation date is scheduled. Planning for up to two months lead time ensures your EV charger installation aligns with local grid safety standards.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Charge point installation for a home EV charger often presents several challenges. Proper planning and preparation, including assessing your electrical system and internet connectivity, are essential to ensure a smooth process. Understanding these issues helps speed up the DNO approval process and prevents installation delays.
When considering installation options, the flexibility of home charge point placement—such as wall mounting or using a post—should be evaluated based on your property’s layout and technical requirements. Home chargers need to connect to the internet, either through WiFi or through a 4G/5G mobile connection. Selecting the optimal location for a car charging point is crucial to ensure convenience, safety, and compatibility with your home’s electrical system.
Upgrading Property Connections
You may need to upgrade your property’s electrical connections before installing a home EV charger. Fuse upgrades become necessary if your supply can’t safely handle the increased load, especially with 7 kW chargers. DNOs identify when fuse replacements or cable upgrades are required. Some properties share a looped supply—where service cables connect two homes—and DNOs don’t approve EV chargers in these scenarios. If your home uses a looped supply, the DNO will require “unlooping”, which separates your connection. Backlogs at the local DNO lengthen upgrade timelines when many requests arrive in short periods. Early communication with your DNO about existing supply limitations helps avoid extensive project delays.
Navigating Technical Requirements
You must ensure compliance with all technical standards for safe installation. The ENA application form requests specific details, such as charger power rating and demand projections. Installers check that your property’s circuits, fuses and overall electrical infrastructure can support the new charger load, especially if you already have high-demand appliances like heat pumps or electric showers. DNOs review these details against regulatory guidelines before issuing approval. Installation standards, such as those set by the Energy Networks Association and government bodies, require OZEV-approved chargepoints and certified professionals for both safety and legal compliance. Accurate documentation and upfront technical checks help reduce the risk of rejected applications or added site visits.
Key Facts Every Homeowner Should Know
DNO approval secures the safe connection of your home EV charger to the UK grid and aligns the installation with legal requirements. Your installer usually manages the notification process, but you’re liable for key responsibilities and must pay for notification and any required upgrades. Installation is scheduled only after these costs have been paid.
Costs and Who Pays Them
Understanding the costs involved is crucial. While your installer typically manages the DNO notification or application as part of their service, you, the homeowner, are generally responsible for the costs associated with any required infrastructure upgrades.
- DNO Notification/Application Fees: For standard G98 notifications, there’s usually no direct DNO fee, though your installer might incorporate an administrative charge into their overall installation price. For G99 applications, some DNOs may levy an application fee, which can range from minor administrative charges to a few hundred pounds, depending on the complexity.
- Main Fuse Upgrade: If your existing main fuse (the large fuse at the supply intake) needs upgrading, the DNO typically carries out this work. For a simple fuse swap (e.g., from 60A to 80A or 100A), many DNOs provide this service free of charge, as it benefits their network. However, this is at their discretion and depends on your existing supply capacity.
- Service Cable Upgrade / Reinforcement: If the incoming service cable to your property or the local network cannot handle the increased load, more substantial work, such as replacing the cable or reinforcing the local transformer, may be required. These works can be significantly more expensive, ranging from hundreds to several thousands of pounds, and are generally chargeable to the homeowner.
- ‘Unlooping’ a Shared Supply: If your property shares an electricity supply with a neighbour (a ‘looped supply’), the DNO will typically require this to be separated (‘unlooped’) before an EV charger can be installed. While the DNO performs this work, the costs can vary. Some DNOs may cover the cost of the ‘unlooping’ itself, as it’s a network improvement, but associated costs like groundworks on your property might still fall to you. It’s essential to confirm this with your specific DNO.
Cost Type | Covered By | Notes |
|---|---|---|
DNO Notification/Application | Homeowner (indirectly via installer) | Often included in installer’s package. Direct DNO fees rare for G98, possible for G99. |
Main Fuse Upgrade | DNO (often free for simple swaps) / Homeowner | Varies by DNO and existing capacity. Simple swaps (e.g., 60A to 80A/100A) often free. |
Service Cable Upgrade / Reinforcement | Homeowner | Can range from hundreds to several thousands of pounds. |
‘Unlooping’ Shared Supply | DNO (often free for the ‘unlooping’ work itself) / Homeowner | May be free for the DNO’s work, but homeowner might pay for associated property works. |
Installation can only be scheduled after any necessary DNO approvals are secured and any required upfront payments for upgrades have been made. Ignoring DNO approval can lead to enforcement action, including fines or disconnection, as well as invalidating insurance and warranties.
What Happens Without Approval
Installing an EV charger without DNO approval risks enforcement action. You may face fines or be ordered to remove non-compliant equipment if DNO notification hasn’t occurred. Utilities check for DNO compliance during routine inspections or fault investigations. Local DNOs have statutory powers to disconnect illegal connections to protect network safety and other users. Ensuring DNO approval keeps your installation legal and insurable.
Securing DNO approval for your home EV charger is a crucial step that protects both your property and the wider community. By following the correct process and working with certified installers you’ll avoid costly setbacks and ensure your installation meets all legal and safety requirements.
Taking the time to understand your responsibilities and preparing for any necessary upgrades will help you stay ahead of potential issues. With the right approach you can enjoy hassle-free charging at home and peace of mind knowing your installation is fully compliant.
Useful Resources
- Energy Networks Association (ENA) – Connecting Electric Vehicles and Heat Pumps: https://www.energynetworks.org/industry/connecting-to-the-networks/connecting-electric-vehicles-and-heat-pumps
- Ofgem – List of all electricity licensees including suppliers: https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/publications/list-all-electricity-licensees-including-suppliers
- DNO-Specific Guidance:
- UK Power Networks (General Connections Page, navigate to EV info): https://ukpowernetworks.co.uk/internet/en/connections/
- National Grid Electricity Distribution (Domestic EV): https://connections.nationalgrid.co.uk/get-connected/electric-vehicle-charging-point/domestic-ev
- Northern Powergrid (Electric Vehicles): https://www.northernpowergrid.com/connections-and-services/electric-vehicles-solar-and-heat-pumps/electric-vehicles
- Scottish Power Energy Networks (Electric Vehicle Charging): https://www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/electric_vehicle_charging.aspx
- Electricity North West (Electric Vehicles): https://www.enwl.co.uk/get-connected/apply-for-a-new-connection/electric-vehicles2/
- UK Power Networks (General Connections Page, navigate to EV info): https://ukpowernetworks.co.uk/internet/en/connections/
- National Grid Electricity Distribution (Domestic EV): https://connections.nationalgrid.co.uk/get-connected/electric-vehicle-charging-point/domestic-ev
- Northern Powergrid (Electric Vehicles): https://www.northernpowergrid.com/connections-and-services/electric-vehicles-solar-and-heat-pumps/electric-vehicles
- Scottish Power Energy Networks (Electric Vehicle Charging): https://www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/electric_vehicle_charging.aspx
- Electricity North West (Electric Vehicles): https://www.enwl.co.uk/get-connected/apply-for-a-new-connection/electric-vehicles2/
- Installer & Grant Information:
- GOV.UK – Government grants for plug-in vehicles (OZEV): https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/government-grants-for-plug-in-vehicles
- NICEIC (Find a Contractor): https://www.niceic.com/find-a-contractor
- NAPIT (Member Search for Installers): https://search.napit.org.uk/
- GOV.UK – Government grants for plug-in vehicles (OZEV): https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/government-grants-for-plug-in-vehicles
- NICEIC (Find a Contractor): https://www.niceic.com/find-a-contractor
- NAPIT (Member Search for Installers): https://search.napit.org.uk/
- Regulations & Standards:
- GOV.UK – Electric vehicle smart charge point regulations 2021: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/electric-vehicle-smart-charge-point-regulations-2021
- GOV.UK – Electric vehicle smart charge point regulations 2021: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/electric-vehicle-smart-charge-point-regulations-2021
- EV Charging Apps & Networks:
- EV Charging Apps – Best Chargers
- EV Charging Apps – Best Chargers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DNO approval and why do I need it for a home EV charger?
DNO approval is permission from your local Distribution Network Operator to connect an electric vehicle charger to the electricity grid. It is required to ensure your home’s electrical supply can safely handle the extra load from a charger, preventing overloads and ensuring network safety.
How long does the DNO approval process take?
The DNO approval process usually takes 10–15 working days, but can extend to 30–60 days if a supply upgrade is needed or if your charger is higher powered than standard 7 kW units.
Who handles the DNO application process?
Typically, your certified installer submits the DNO application on your behalf, including technical details and property information. However, you are ultimately responsible for providing accurate details and covering any costs.
What information is needed for the DNO application?
You’ll need to provide your contact information, property address, charger power rating, details about your electricity supply, and your installer’s credentials for the application.
What happens if my home’s electrical supply isn’t sufficient?
If your supply can’t support the charger safely, the DNO may require upgrades such as a fuse replacement, cable upgrades, or removal of a looped supply. These works can add extra time and cost to your installation.
Can I install an EV charger without DNO approval?
No. Installing a home EV charger without DNO approval is illegal. The DNO may disconnect non-compliant chargers, and you could face fines or orders to remove the equipment.
Are there extra costs if upgrades are needed for DNO approval?
Yes. If your property requires electrical upgrades, you must cover the costs. This could include new cabling, fuse upgrades, or separation of looped supplies as determined by the DNO.
What technical standards must my EV charger installation meet?
Installations must use OZEV-approved chargepoints, follow UK wiring regulations, and comply with specific technical requirements outlined by your DNO, such as providing G98 or G99 notifications with accurate demand projections.
What happens if my DNO application is rejected?
If your DNO application is rejected, it’s usually due to insufficient supply or incomplete technical information. You may need to upgrade your supply or resubmit the application with all required details.
How can I speed up the DNO approval process?
Provide all required documentation accurately, communicate early with your installer and DNO, and ensure your property meets relevant technical standards. Preparing for possible upgrades can also help avoid delays.
