Quick answer
Not necessarily. Single-phase G98 connections support solar up to 13 kW. Most parish churches install below this threshold. Three-phase G99 needed only above 13 kW or where heat pump or EV charging is also planned. Upgrading costs £4,000-£12,000 plus DNO charges.
Full answer
UK electricity supply standards: single-phase 230V is standard for domestic and small-commercial properties. Three-phase 400V is standard for commercial premises with larger demand. Most parish churches have legacy single-phase supplies.
Solar PV connection rules (Energy Networks Association G98 and G99 standards): single-phase systems up to 13 kW connect under G98 (4-8 week approval). Above 13 kW requires G99 (8-16 week approval) and typically three-phase.
For most parish churches (typical 8-25 kW), single-phase is fine below 13 kW. Going above means upgrading to three-phase before install.
Three-phase upgrade: typical £4,000-£12,000 plus DNO charges. Worth doing if planning larger system, heat pump, or EV charging. Not worth doing for solar-only sub-13 kW.
Related questions
- What is a G98 connection?
- How much does three-phase upgrade cost?
- Can we run multiple single-phase systems?
- What is a DNO?