NC6 Form: Your Guide to Microgeneration in Ireland

Are you interested in generating your own green electricity from renewable sources, such as solar panels, micro-wind, micro-hydro or micro-CHP? If so, you might have heard of the term NC6 form. But what is it, and why do you need it? In this blog post, we will explain everything you need to know about this form and how it can help you benefit from the Microgeneration Support Scheme in Ireland.

What is an NC6 Form?

It is a document you must submit to ESB Networks if you have a microgeneration device installed on your property. The form provides ESB Networks with the information they need to register your device and install a smart meter if you do not already have one.

A smart meter is a device that measures your electricity consumption and export in real time, and sends the data to your supplier. This way, you can get accurate bills and payments for your microgeneration.

Why Submit an NC6 Form?

Registration of Your Microgeneration Device

By submitting this form, you register your microgeneration device with ESB Networks, ensuring that your installation complies with all applicable regulations and guidelines. This registration process is essential for connecting your solar panels to the grid, enabling you to sell your excess electricity back to the grid and receive payment.

Accurate Billing and Payments

With an NC6 Form submission and smart meter installation, you can accurately measure the electricity you generate and export to the grid. This information is vital for your electricity supplier to calculate your bill and credit you for the excess power you’ve provided, ensuring that you receive the financial benefits of your solar microgeneration.

Safety and Grid Stability

Submitting this form helps ESB Networks maintain grid stability and safety. By registering your solar installation, you contribute a more accurate understanding of the distributed energy resources on the grid. This knowledge allows ESB Networks to manage and balance power supply and demand efficiently.

How to complete and submit the NC6 Form?

Completing the form

You should complete the NC6 Form during the installation process with the assistance of your solar panel technician. The form requires the following information:

Personal details: Your name, address, contact information, and MPRN (Meter Point Reference Number).
Installer details: The name and contact information of the solar panel installer or company.
Microgeneration device details: The make, model, and capacity of your solar panels, as well as the inverter type and capacity.
Declaration: A declaration by the installer confirming that the installation complies with relevant standards and regulations.

Submitting the Form

Once you’ve completed the form, submit it to ESB Networks by email or post. It is crucial to send this form promptly after your solar panel installation to ensure you can begin receiving the benefits of microgeneration as soon as possible.

ESB Networks’ Response and Smart Meter Installation

After receiving your form, ESB Networks will contact you to confirm your registration and provide a reference number. They will arrange for installation if you do not already have a smart meter.

Financial Benefits of Solar Microgeneration in Ireland

Selling Electricity Back to the Grid

With a registered solar microgeneration system and a smart meter, you can sell your excess electricity back to the grid. The current rate for exported electricity in Ireland is €0.135/kWh. This rate may vary over time, so staying informed about changes is essential.

Savings on Your Electricity Bill

By generating your own electricity with solar panels, you can reduce your reliance on the grid and decrease your electricity bills. The savings will depend on factors such as the size of your solar system, your electricity consumption habits, and the amount of sunlight your panels receive.

Take the Next Step with Going Solar

Now that you understand the importance of the NC6 Form and its benefits to solar panel owners in Ireland, it’s time to take the next step. At Going Solar, we provide expert solar panel services, ensuring your installation complies with all regulations and that you can take full advantage of the Microgeneration Support Scheme. Contact us today to learn more about our solar panel solutions and how we can help you maximise your investment in renewable energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an NC6 form?

What if I did not submit the NC6 micro-generation Notification Form?

If you did not submit this form, you cannot avail of the Microgeneration Support Scheme and receive payments for your excess electricity. Therefore, you must submit your NC6 form after installing your microgeneration device as soon as possible.

How much do I get for selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland?

The current rate for selling electricity back to the grid in Ireland is €0.135/kWh. This rate may change, so staying informed about updates is essential.

Who submits the NC6 Form?

The property owner, with the assistance of their solar panel installation technician, is responsible for submitting the NC6 Form. The technician will provide the necessary technical information about the solar panel system, while the property owner will provide their contact details, property information, and electricity supplier data.

Are there any costs associated with processing the NC6 Form or network upgrades?

Currently, no costs are associated with processing an ESB Networks Microgeneration Notification Form. It is also not typical for micro-generation connections to provoke the need for network upgrades. In the rare event that network upgrades are required, ESB Networks will inform the customer after submitting the form.

Can you feed electricity back into the grid?

Yes, you can feed electricity back into the grid. This is typically done through a system called net metering. When a home's solar panels or other renewable energy systems produce more electricity than is consumed, the excess power can be sent back into the grid. Depending on local regulations and the terms of your electricity provider, you may receive credit or payment for this excess power.