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Getting ready for export

  • December 4, 2025
  • 6 replies
  • 91 views
hertsevaddict
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Hello, 

So my plans when installing a 8kw solis hybrid inverter and 16kwh lifepo4 battery were not for export, just a protection for blackouts (the house now runs on UPS). It is also a first step to lower electricity expenses, as they will only grow when we get an ASHP. Eventually we may add some PV.  

Our battery install is ready.  🙂

Since our DNO uk power networks stated they would approve us to do 5kw export, taking the next step while it was all fresh seemed simpler.  

I now have an export MPAN, actually with 8kw approved. Our smart meter is export-ready. But we do not have MCS nor flexorb (as I had no plan to export now, I saved the expense).  

Is there an advantage to get MCS paperwork vs short-circuiting and setting up export to an utility operator that does not require it? Or is there anything to gain with MCS?  😉 

Best answer by hertsevaddict

Hello Ben_OVO, 

 

Sounds interesting. So how could I get an MCS or Flexi Orb for my inverter/battery?

 

Thanks

6 replies

Peter E
Super User
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  • Peter ESuper User
  • Super User
  • December 4, 2025

As far as I'm aware most energy companies require MCS certification in order to be able to export. The only one who do not specifically require this is Octopus who will accept an installation certificate from a licenced electrician as far as I can recall. These details need to be verified. it's for safety reasons which means DIY installations are not accepted. I had not heard of Flex-Orb until now so you would have to ask the question. It may be equivalent to MCS. 

Reducing my yearly fossil fuel usage with an EV (-900 litres petrol), A2AHP (-8,500 kWh gas) and Timed Immersion heater (-1,500 kWh gas)
hertsevaddict
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  • hertsevaddict
  • Author
  • Rank 2
  • December 5, 2025

It seems that flex-orb is becoming an alternative to MCS.

This was not DIY, it was installed by an electrician.  

    Ben_OVO
    Community Manager
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    • Ben_OVO
    • Community Manager
    • December 8, 2025

    Morning ​@hertsevaddict and thanks for your post. I hope you’re well and had a good weekend.

     

    Thanks for letting us know about the installation - all sounds really interesting. I’ve added a battery badge to your Forum account as well.

     

    Regarding the MCS / Flexi Orb certificate, we’ll need one of the two I believe. I’ve taken this screenshot from the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) application form:

     

    You can see the full application form here, and here’s a link to our SEG web page: https://www.ovoenergy.com/seg.

     

    I hope this helps.

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    hertsevaddict
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    • hertsevaddict
    • Author
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    • Solved
    • December 9, 2025

    Hello Ben_OVO, 

     

    Sounds interesting. So how could I get an MCS or Flexi Orb for my inverter/battery?

     

    Thanks

      Peter E
      Super User
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      • Peter ESuper User
      • Super User
      • December 9, 2025

      If your installer is MCS or Flexi-Orb registered then you should have been supplied with a certificate on completion. If you don't have a certificate then you need to ask them.

       

      Peter

       

      Reducing my yearly fossil fuel usage with an EV (-900 litres petrol), A2AHP (-8,500 kWh gas) and Timed Immersion heater (-1,500 kWh gas)
        hertsevaddict
        Rank 2
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        • hertsevaddict
        • Author
        • Rank 2
        • December 20, 2025

        I also hear Octopus is doing some sort of energy exchange deal where you let them use the space capacity of your battery to balance the local grid for a fee. 

         

        Need to find more about it and if MCS/Flexiorb is an absolute requirement. 

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