Best solar export tariff rates UK (December 2025)
Compare whole-of-market solar export tariffs (SEG and non-SEG where available) for UK homes. See what you could earn for exporting electricity and switch to a better rate with one quick form.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households (not just one supplier)
- Check eligibility for SEG export payments in minutes
- Compare export rate types: fixed p/kWh, variable, capped & tracker-style
- Get matched to import + export tariffs that suit your usage and battery
Home energy only. No obligation. We’ll use your details to provide quotes and contact you about your comparison request.
Compare solar export tariffs for December 2025
If you generate more electricity than you use, a solar export tariff pays you for the electricity you send to the grid. In the UK, most home export payments fall under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Rates and rules vary by supplier and can change regularly.
EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market options — so you can focus on the tariff that fits your system (solar PV, battery, EV charger), your usage pattern, and how much you typically export.
Quick tip for better export earnings
The “best” solar export tariff rate isn’t always the highest p/kWh. Some of the strongest outcomes come from pairing export with a good import tariff (especially if you have a battery or time-of-use meter). We’ll help you compare both.
December 2025 rate note: Export tariff availability and p/kWh rates can change. This page explains what to look for and how to compare. For live eligibility and current offers, use the form above.
Why compare solar export tariffs with EnergyPlus?
Whole-of-market focus
We compare across multiple UK suppliers and tariff structures, so you’re not limited to one brand’s “best” option.
Export + import matched
Your export rate is only half the story. We help you weigh up import unit rates, standing charges, and time-of-use windows.
Clear eligibility checks
We’ll flag common blockers like missing MCS certification, export meter requirements, or smart meter setup.
Designed for households
This page and comparison is for home energy customers — including solar PV, batteries, and EV tariffs where relevant.
Less confusion, faster switching
We focus on the clauses that matter: export meter type, deemed export vs metered export, payment caps and variable pricing.
Support when rates change
If a tariff closes or updates, you can re-check the market quickly and stay aligned to the best option for your setup.
What counts as the “best” solar export tariff rate in the UK?
In December 2025, the best solar export tariff rate for your household depends on more than a headline p/kWh. Some tariffs pay a consistently strong fixed rate. Others use variable pricing (sometimes linked to wholesale). A few reward exporting at certain times or require you to take the supplier’s import tariff too.
Look beyond the export unit rate
- Eligibility: SEG requirements (e.g., MCS certificate and export meter/smart meter setup).
- Payment method: monthly vs quarterly, bill credit vs bank transfer.
- Rate structure: fixed, variable, capped, or time-based.
- Import costs: unit rate and standing charge can offset export earnings.
- Battery/EV fit: time-of-use import might beat a slightly higher export rate.
A practical rule of thumb
If you export a lot (no battery, daytime empty home), prioritise the export p/kWh. If you self-consume more (battery, home working), a better import tariff may matter more than a small export difference.
Comparison checklist for December 2025
1) Confirm export metering
Smart meter or export meter in place (or a plan to fit one).
2) Check certificate eligibility
MCS certificate (or equivalent accepted route) for your PV installation.
3) Compare tariff type
Fixed vs variable; any caps, minimum terms, or bundled import conditions.
4) Estimate your exports
Use last year’s export readings or an estimate to see realistic earnings.
Want help running the numbers? Use our comparison form and we’ll match tariffs to your situation.
How the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) works
SEG is the UK scheme that requires larger electricity suppliers to offer at least one export tariff to eligible generators. You’re paid for each kWh you export to the grid (usually measured via a smart meter). The export tariff rate is set by the supplier and can vary widely.
Typical SEG eligibility (homes)
- Solar PV installed by an MCS-certified installer (or another accepted route depending on supplier policy)
- Capacity within the scheme limits for domestic microgeneration
- An export meter / smart meter capable of recording export readings
- You’re the bill payer (or have authority to switch/export on the account)
What you’ll need to apply
- MCS certificate (or installation documentation)
- Meter details (MPAN and meter type, if asked)
- Bank details (if supplier pays cash rather than bill credit)
- Export readings (if applicable) and agreement acceptance
SEG export payment timeline (what to expect)
Important: Some export tariffs require you to take the supplier’s import tariff too. Others let you export with one supplier and import with another. We’ll show options that fit your preferences.
What affects solar export tariff rates in December 2025?
Export rates are set by suppliers and can reflect wholesale market expectations, competition, risk, and how they structure import/export products. Here are the practical factors that usually change the rate you can access.
Your metering setup
Most SEG tariffs require smart export readings. If export can’t be measured accurately, eligibility can be limited or delayed.
Tariff design & restrictions
Some suppliers offer a high export rate but require their import tariff, a direct debit setup, or a minimum term.
Battery and usage pattern
With a battery, you may export less (because you store more), shifting the “best deal” towards cheaper off-peak import.
Payment frequency
If cashflow matters, compare monthly vs quarterly payments and whether it’s credited to your bill or paid to your bank.
Regional & network details
While SEG rates aren’t set by your DNO, your meter type and configuration can vary by area and impact setup times.
Rate volatility
Variable export rates can move up or down. A fixed export rate can be easier for planning, even if it’s slightly lower.
Export tariff types you’ll see (UK homes)
Common mistakes that reduce export payments
Only chasing the highest p/kWh
If the import rate and standing charge are high, your overall annual cost can worsen even with a great export rate. Compare the full picture.
Not checking metering requirements
Some tariffs need half-hourly readings or specific smart meter configurations. Missing this can delay payments.
Overestimating export volume
Battery storage, immersion diverters and daytime usage can reduce export. Use real readings where possible.
Assuming “deemed export” applies
Most SEG export tariffs are metered. If you’re coming from older schemes, don’t assume your export is estimated.
If you’re unsure what meter you have, submit the comparison form and we’ll point you to the right tariff types for your setup.
Solar export tariff FAQs (UK)
Can I get an export tariff with a different supplier to my import electricity?
Sometimes, yes — but it depends on the supplier’s terms and your metering. Many suppliers prefer (or require) you to take both import and export with them, while some allow separate arrangements. EnergyPlus can help you compare options that match your preference.
Do I need a smart meter to get paid for solar export?
In most cases, yes. SEG payments are usually based on metered export readings. If you don’t have a smart meter, you may need one fitted, or you may need an export-capable meter arrangement. Requirements vary by supplier.
How much can I earn from a solar export tariff?
Your earnings depend on (1) the export p/kWh and (2) how many kWh you export. Exports are higher in spring/summer and lower in winter. Battery storage can reduce export because you store more for later use. For a tailored estimate, submit the form at Compare in minutes.
Is the best export rate always a variable tariff?
Not always. Variable export rates can rise, but they can also fall. A fixed export rate can be better for predictable earnings. The right choice depends on your risk preference and whether you’re pairing export with a time-of-use import tariff.
Can I switch export tariffs if I already receive SEG payments?
Often, yes — subject to any notice period or minimum term on your current tariff. You’ll also want to ensure the new supplier can take over export readings smoothly. EnergyPlus can help you compare without losing sight of import costs.
Do export payments affect my energy bill?
It depends on the supplier. Some pay cash to your bank account; others credit your energy bill. Either way, export payments are typically calculated from the export kWh you send to the grid.
What households use EnergyPlus for
We’re built for practical comparisons — especially where solar export, batteries and time-of-use tariffs make the decision less straightforward.
“I thought the highest export rate was the obvious pick, but the import standing charge was steep. The comparison helped me choose a better overall deal.”
UK homeowner, solar PV + smart meter
“Helpful explanations of SEG requirements. I didn’t realise my installer paperwork mattered for eligibility.”
UK homeowner, new solar install
“We have a battery and an EV. Matching export with a time-of-use import tariff made the biggest difference.”
UK homeowner, battery + EV charger
Trust & transparency: We explain why a tariff is recommended (not just the headline rate), and we’ll highlight restrictions like bundled import requirements or variable export pricing.
Ready to find the best solar export tariff for your home?
Compare December 2025 export tariff options across the market. Get matched to suitable SEG export rates and (where relevant) the right import tariff too.
- Whole-of-market comparison for UK households
- Checks for MCS / metering eligibility
- Clear view of export rate type and payment method
Start your comparison
Use the form above or jump back to it now.
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