Micro generation describes the production of electricity using small renewable generators. It is typically associated with installations in domestic or small business properties, like rooftop solar panels or small hydro or wind turbines. Micro generators produce less than 5.75 kW (single phase connection to the house) or 11 kW (3 phase connection to the house) of electrical power.

Micro generators can ‘spill’ power onto the grid, at times when power is being produced but not all the power is being used on site.  For example, solar pv panels on a school over a sunny weekend or holiday period.  To measure the amount of ‘spill’ from a micro generator, a Smart Meter must be installed by ESB Networks.

Please see our separate FAQ for Micro-generation.