Solar & Energy Glossary
Quick answer: We arrange solar panel and battery installations for homes and businesses in Scotland, through MCS-certified partners. Every quote starts with a no-obligation survey of your roof, energy use and budget. To get started, call 0141 230 0198 or fill in the quote form on this page.
Solar & Energy Glossary
Plain-English definitions of solar, battery and heat pump terms: kWp, kWh, inverter, SEG, G98, G99, DNO, MCS, time-of-use, export limiting and more.
Scottish Energy Efficiency is a Dundee-based consultancy connecting homeowners across Scotland with MCS-certified renewable energy installers. We provide impartial advice on solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps, and insulation.
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Frequently asked questions
Last reviewed: October 2026
What is kWp?
kWp stands for kilowatt peak, the maximum output a solar panel can produce under ideal conditions. A 400W panel has a peak output of 0.4kWp. A typical domestic system might total 4kWp, made up of 10 panels.
What is kWh?
kWh stands for kilowatt hour, the unit of energy your electricity meter counts. One kWh is the energy used by a 1,000 watt appliance running for one hour. Your bill is calculated in kWh.
What is a solar inverter?
A solar inverter converts the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) that your home appliances use. It is usually installed in a loft, garage or utility room.
What is a hybrid inverter?
A hybrid inverter combines a solar inverter and a battery inverter in one unit. It manages both solar generation and battery charging and discharging, and can provide backup power during a power cut if configured to do so.
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
The Smart Export Guarantee is a UK government scheme requiring electricity suppliers to pay you for surplus solar electricity you export to the grid. SEG rates vary by supplier and tariff.
What are G98 and G99?
G98 and G99 are DNO connection standards. G98 applies to small domestic systems up to 3.68kW per phase and is automatically approved. G99 applies to larger systems and requires DNO approval before installation. Your survey determines which applies.
What is a DNO?
A DNO is a Distribution Network Operator, the company that manages the electricity grid in your area. In Scotland the DNOs are Scottish Power Energy Networks (central and southern Scotland) and SSE (northern Scotland). Your system connects to their network.
What is MCS certification?
MCS stands for Microgeneration Certification Scheme. An MCS-certified installer meets standards for renewable energy installations. We install through MCS-certified partners, and MCS certification is required for SEG payments.
What is a time-of-use tariff?
A time-of-use tariff charges different electricity prices at different times of day. Electricity is cheaper during off-peak periods, such as overnight, and more expensive during peak periods. Examples include Octopus Agile, Octopus Go and OVO Drive.
What is export limiting?
Export limiting restricts the amount of electricity your solar system sends to the grid, keeping it within the limit agreed with your DNO. This allows larger solar systems to be installed on standard domestic connections without needing a G99 application.
Questions people ask about this service
Do you install solar panels and batteries in Scotland?
Yes, we arrange installations for homes and businesses in Scotland through MCS-certified partners. Every quote starts with a survey of the roof, energy use and budget, so the system is designed around your property — not a one-size-fits-all package.
How much do solar panels cost in Scotland?
Every system is designed for your home after a no-obligation survey. Your written quotation shows the full price, the equipment and the warranties before you commit. Finance are available, subject to status. We check which funding and finance options you qualify for.
Can I add a battery to solar panels I already have?
Usually yes, sometimes with an inverter upgrade if your current inverter is not battery-compatible. We check the existing system at the survey and explain the options first, so you know exactly what is involved, what it costs, and whether it makes sense before you decide.
Do solar panels work in Scottish weather?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity on overcast days as well as sunny ones. A typical 5kW system in Scotland generates approximately 4,000 to 4,500 kWh per year. Generation is highest from April to September but continues year-round.
Is finance available?
Finance options are available, subject to status. We explain what is on offer with your written quote, including any applicable funding, so you can compare paying upfront against spreading the cost over monthly payments and choose the option that suits your budget.
How do I get a quote?
Call 0141 230 0198 or fill in the form on this page. We arrange a no-obligation survey at your home, then send a written quote showing the full price, the equipment and the warranties, so you can decide in your own time.