How Long Does Installation Take

Most residential solar systems are installed in a single day. The timeline from first enquiry to a commissioned system is typically 4–8 weeks, with the DNO notification process often determining how long you wait.

The installation day itself

A standard 4kWp system with a single-phase inverter takes 6–8 hours to install. Battery storage adds 1–2 hours. Complex installs — multiple roof planes, difficult access, consumer unit upgrades — can run into a second day. We are specific about this at survey so there are no surprises.

The weeks beforehand

• Survey booking — typically within 1–2 weeks of enquiry
• Design approval — 3–5 days after survey
• DNO notification (G98) — 20 working days' notice required; we submit immediately on design approval
• DNO application (G99) — for systems above 3.68kW in certain areas; can take 8–12 weeks
• Installation booking — once DNO clears, we schedule within our next available slot

The DNO wait is the biggest variable

If your system requires G99 approval — common for larger systems or in areas of high grid demand — the overall timeline extends significantly. We submit DNO applications as soon as design is approved rather than waiting. If you are working to a specific date, let us know at survey stage.

After installation

MCS documentation is issued within a few working days of commissioning. SEG registration with your energy supplier typically takes a further 2–4 weeks before export payments begin. You can start self-consuming your generation from day one.