cable to shed futureproofing

Am having an extension built and now looks like a good time to run some swa along a brick wall ready for a spark to plumb in both ends

Question is how many core to cover all bases? as it may be an idea to tap into the cable half way along to feed some lights or power a pond pump.

Also there is a possibility of selling some power back to the grid as the shed can hold a very large (8 m2 worth of) solar panels.

What core and what mm2 would a spark insist on?, I assume the sw of the swa cable can be used as earth, I havent checked if the house is tt or tncs etc, but need to get a 'cover all bases' cable in asap before builders want to concrete up the foundations.

b/

p.s. forgot to mention its about 40m end to end.

It's very difficult to say without seeing it - your best option would be to get a spark in to advise, most would be happy to pop round, advise on what cable and any restrictions in its installation, if they're then going to get the job of connecting it all up etc.

As for selling leccy back to the grid, I have no clue what's involved with that, I suspect you'd need to get whoever's going to do the solar power stuff involved as they will know what's required...

8 m2 - so about 800W at midday on a good summer's day. Our house rarely goes below that level, though I waiting to see what happens when my son goes back to college and turns off his 2 computers and 4 screens.

My guess is that exporting won't be worth the extra cost, but I have no personal experience.

It may be worth spending some time at this forum if you want to pursue this option.

bananaspark said:

Am having an extension built and now looks like a good time to run some swa along a brick wall ready for a spark to plumb in both ends

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Underground would be better, plus a 2nd duct for phone/network cables.

Question is how many core to cover all bases? as it may be an idea to tap into the cable half way along to feed some lights or power a pond pump.

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Depends where you want to switch things from - your electrician can advise when you tell him what you will or might want.

What core and what mm2 would a spark insist on?,

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Whatever is needed - he'll be able to work that out based on what you tell him.

I assume the sw of the swa cable can be used as earth

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Usually, but not always, and anyway that would be your electrician's decision, it's not something you need to be involved in as you must let him do the design work and instruct you in the cable installation, if you want to try and save a few quid.

I havent checked if the house is tt or tncs etc, but need to get a 'cover all bases' cable in asap before builders want to concrete up the foundations.

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Then you must find the electrician who will do the design asap, or you may find that you're stuffed. Also you need to consider the supply type as that can have a significant effect on the design if you have extraneous-conductive-parts in the shed.

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