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Solar and renewables
Advice, installation and grid connection support for solar PV on the island.
What we do
Supporting solar on Alderney
We support the growth of renewable energy on the island, particularly solar PV.
If you're considering solar, we can help you understand what's right for your property, guide you through the approval process and make sure your system connects safely to the electricity network.
Our aim is to make the process as straightforward as possible, while keeping the island's electricity system stable and reliable for everyone.
Read a short note from our MD here: Solar on Alderney – growing carefully, fairly and together | Alderney Electricity
What we can help with
Support at every stage
We can support you at every stage:
Advice on solar PV and system design
Guidance on system sizing for your property
Installation by trained local engineers
Support with grid connection and approval
Final commissioning before connection
If you prefer to use your own installer, we're happy to work alongside them to make sure everything meets the requirements of the island network.
Approval
Why approval is needed
Alderney operates a small, self-contained electricity system. It must remain carefully balanced at all times.
Even relatively small renewable systems can affect voltage and stability, particularly as more are added across the island.
For that reason, all solar and battery installations must be reviewed and approved before they are installed or connected.
This isn't about creating unnecessary process. It ensures every system is safe, compatible and able to operate reliably from day one.
Requirements
What every installation needs
Batteries
All solar systems on Alderney are required to include battery storage. Every installation must be commissioned by us before it can be connected to the network.
Export
Exporting electricity to the grid is not currently available as a standard option. We are working towards introducing this in the future through a structured arrangement.
Monitoring
Approved systems must include suitable monitoring and communication capability so we can understand how generation is behaving across the network and maintain system stability.
System sizes
Typical limits for residential systems
To help keep the network safe and fair for everyone, residential systems are assessed based on how the property is supplied.
In general:
Homes using a mix of electricity and other fuels may be approved up to 3.68 kW inverter size
Fully electric homes using a three phase supply may be considered for larger systems, up to 11.04 kW.
These are typical ranges rather than fixed entitlements. Each installation is assessed individually, and we'll explain what is likely to be possible for your property.
Larger systems
Commercial and larger installations
Larger systems are assessed as commercial grid connections, even where the property is domestic.
These applications involve a more detailed technical review and may include:
Additional assessment fees
Confirmed connection costs
Potential network upgrades, depending on location and size
We'll always set this out clearly so you understand the requirements before making any commitments.
The process
How it works
Get in touch
The best place to start is a conversation with us. Tell us about your property and what you're planning.
Submit your details
Send us your system details for review. We assess the proposal and confirm what is possible for your property.
We set out requirements
We confirm any conditions, costs or requirements before you proceed. If you wish, AEL can quote for the work. All costs will be explained clearly; nothing will come as a surprise.
Installation and commissioning
The system is installed by us or your chosen contractor, then it will commissioned by us before connection is permitted. Systems must not be switched on until approval is complete.
APPLICATION PROCESS
How the application process works
If you are considering installing solar panels, it is important to understand AEL's application and approval process before getting started.
Important: Please contact us before purchasing equipment or committing to installation work. We can explain the application process, confirm the fees and advise on the suitability of your proposed installation.
Standard fees: £750 in total (£250 PV application fee and £500 inspection fee), excluding any additional work or re-inspection charges.
Complete and submit the SOLAR01 – Solar PV Enquiry Form to AEL. This lodges formally your interest in solar PV with us.
You do not need a full technical design at this stage; simply provide as much information about your ideas or what you think you'd like to achieve with solar and batteries at your property. If you can, provide as much information about your proposed installation as possible.
Fee: Free
Current application status: New private solar PV installations are on hold until a date not before 1st April 2027. However, you can submit an initial enquiry (Solar 01 form) now to join the queue.
AEL will acknowledge your enquiry and retain your details. We will contact customers in the order enquiries were received regarding the next stage of the process.
Submitting an enquiry does not guarantee approval or a connection date.
installers' guide
Are you an installer?
If you are an electrical contractor or installer considering solar PV, battery storage or EV charging projects on Alderney, please review our Installers’ Guide at an early stage. It sets out AEL’s requirements for the design, installation, approval and connection of these technologies to the island electricity network.
Download Installers' Guide
Download approved equipment list
Good to know
Further information
Find answers to common questions about solar installations and the approval process on Alderney. If you need further help, please get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
Plug-in solar devices are not currently supported on the island network. This type of technology is still being assessed in the UK and a consistent safety framework is not yet in place. If you're unsure about a product, please contact us before purchasing.
Get in touch
Talk to us about solar
Whether you're in the early stages of planning or ready to apply, get in touch and we'll talk through what's possible for your property.
