DNO, ENA, and air source heat pump installations
As heat pump installations become more common, it’s important to understand who you should inform as part of the process and to ensure compliance.
Knowing when a DNO, or Distribution Network Operator, (the company that manages the local electricity network) application or notification may be needed, what information is required, and how to build this into the installation journey is key.
Getting the process right from the start can help avoid unnecessary delays and keep the installation moving forward.
In this blog, we’ll look closer at:
The role of the DNO in an air source heat pump installation
When the DNO should be informed
How to contact the DNO
Support with DNO applications
The role of the DNO in an air source heat pump installation
The DNO ensures that the local network is able to safely manage the additional load from a new heat pump installation without power cuts or drops in voltage. Maintaining cables, transformers, and other key safety components of the local network also fall within the DNO’s remit.
Each new heat pump install will place additional load on the local network. Therefore, gaining DNO approval is essential and is a requirement for compliance.
Independent Distribution Network Operators (IDNOs), undertake a similar role. The main difference is that IDNOs are typically involved in supplying services for commercial and social housing developments, alongside newer additions to the network. Both DNOs and IDNOs are regulated by Ofgem, however IDNOs are not linked to geographical areas.
When the DNO should be informed
DNO requirements should be considered as part of the design and planning process. Approval is often needed for EV chargers, solar PV, wind turbines, heat pumps or batteries. The electrical characteristics of the heat pump and the property’s existing electrical supply will determine what process applies.
Low carbon technologies already installed at the property such as solar PV and EV chargers, can be relevant when looking at the overall electricity load.
Depending on the capacity of the air source heat pump and the available load at the property, the DNO could be informed up to 28 days after the installation. However, it is strongly recommended to apply at the planning stages to avoid any delays or remedial work needed to be undertaken.
Whilst carrying out a room-by-room heat loss calculation at the survey stage, it is recommended to capture the existing electrical details of the property including:
Other electrical loads such as existing or planned technologies like ovens, sockets, EV chargers and lights
Existing cut-out fuse size
MPAN number
How to contact the DNO
The relevant DNO can be contacted through the Energy Network Association, or ENA. The ENA has a dedicated search tool on its website, which allows installers to find the right DNO according to the postcode of the installation.
Alternatively, the DNO can be determined from the first two digits of the property’s Meter Point Administration Number (MPAN) which can be found on a copy of the homeowner’s electricity bill.
The ENA’s Connect Direct platform provides a quicker route to DNO application, enabling faster, sometimes instant approval. When notifying the DNO of a heat pump installation, utilising this portal can help maximise the efficiency of the application process.
Support with DNO applications
As the demand for heat pump installations continue to grow, knowing the key processes and stakeholder involved will enable a smooth and efficient installation for both you and your customer. Working under an MCS Umbrella scheme like ours here at Baxi helps you to focus on the actual install whilst we help manage other areas of admin and compliance such as the DNO application and approvals.
Whether you’re new to heat pumps or an experienced installer, our range of training and development courses can support you. Click here for more information.
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